2023 Mertesdorf Herrenberg Riesling Auslese VDP.Grosse Lage Mosel Weingut Maximin Grünhaus 0.75l

2023 Mertesdorf Herrenberg Riesling Auslese VDP.Grosse Lage Weingut Maximin Grünhaus - Mosel/Ruwer
single-vineyard wine

Origin:

The Maximin Grünhaus winery on the Ruwer River near Mertesdorf is one of the most traditional estates in Germany. As early as 966, Emperor Otto I donated the vineyards to the Benedictine monastery of St. Maximin in Trier. Since the 19th century, the estate has been owned by the von Schubert family, who still manage it today. The monopoly property includes the three individual vineyards of Abtsberg, Herrenberg, and Bruderberg , which have reflected a clear hierarchy for centuries. The Herrenberg , the largest of the vineyards at 19 hectares, is situated on red Devonian slate, is less steep, and is protected by forest edges. It produces classic Ruwer Rieslings that are somewhat fuller and spicier than the delicate wines of the Abtsberg and the angular, salty-mineral Kabinetts of the Bruderberg.

Expansion:

The grapes for this Auslese come from highly ripe, selected berries, which were hand-picked in several rounds. Thanks to the onset of noble rot, particularly aromatic grapes were obtained. Fermentation is traditionally carried out with spontaneous yeasts in foudres or stainless steel, without fining. The goal is to preserve the delicate balance of ripe fruit, sweetness, and acidity that defines the character of a classic Mosel Auslese.

Aroma & Taste:

In the glass, the wine is a brilliant golden yellow . On the nose , grapefruit, unripe pineapple, and yellow peach combine with fresh mint, delicate slate minerality, and a hint of creamy honey . On the palate, it is juicy, playful, and has a dancing lightness , carried by a delicate sweetness that never feels heavy. Aromas of fresh fruit, dates, and blossom honey unfold, accompanied by a lively acidity that adds freshness and length. The finish is clear, racy, and elegant , with a balance that makes the wine very drinkable despite its sweetness.

Food recommendation:

This Auslese pairs perfectly with fruity desserts like apricot tart or peach compote, as well as with blue cheeses like Roquefort or Gorgonzola . It also pairs perfectly with Asian cuisine with sweet and sour flavors, such as crispy duck with orange and ginger sauce . As a standalone wine, it's also an ideal festive wine for special occasions.

Special features of the 2023 vintage on the Ruwer:

The 2023 vintage on the Mosel was characterized by considerable fluctuations: A dry and hot June caused drought stress, followed by sunburn in July, before heavy rainfall began at the end of July. Ripening progressed unusually quickly, and many grapes were harvested in the late harvest period . Thanks to selective work in the vineyard, highly ripe, healthy grapes were harvested for the Auslese in Herrenberg, some with a slight case of noble rot . The result is wines with fruit-driven aromas, a balanced sweet-acid structure, and a clear expression of terroir . 2023 is considered a particularly successful vintage on the Mosel for noble sweet wines.

Conclusion:

The Herrenberg Riesling Auslese 2023 combines the spicy and fruity style of the Herrenberg with the elegant sweetness of a classic Mosel Auslese. It showcases the ripe, exotic fruitiness of the vintage, yet remains refreshing and fresh thanks to its acidity and minerality. This clearly distinguishes it from the taut nobility of the Abtsberg and the edgy minerality of the Bruderberg. A wine of great elegance and ageability , it is considered an ambassador for the strength of the Riesling in the 2023 vintage.