Region and Vineyards
The Erdener Treppchen vineyard is located in the heart of the Mosel region, Germany’s premier Riesling-producing area. Known for its steep, terraced hillsides, this vineyard gets its name from the stone steps, or "little staircase," built into the slope to allow vineyard workers to reach the vines. The vineyard’s red slate soils, rich in iron, contribute to the muscular and mineral-driven nature of the wines produced here.
The vines in the Erdener Treppchen vineyard average 60 years in age, with deep roots that draw out the distinctive minerality of the site. The cool climate of the Mosel ensures slow ripening, allowing for balanced acidity and concentrated flavors.
Winemaking
This vintage in the Middle Mosel was marked by a warm spring, intense summer heat, and a severe drought from June to September. Despite these challenges, Dr. Loosen was able to harvest excellent-quality fruit by meticulously selecting grapes and acting quickly during the harvest. The slightly lower acidity levels in this vintage are exceptionally well-integrated, resulting in a beautifully balanced wine.
This Riesling is fermented at cool temperatures in a combination of stainless steel tanks and traditional Fuder barrels. The fermentation is stopped by chilling, preserving the wine’s delicate sweetness and natural acidity. The Erdener Treppchen Riesling Kabinett has an alcohol content of 8.5%, with 39.1 grams/liter of residual sugar and 8.2 grams/liter of total acidity.
Tasting Notes
- Aroma: The wine presents vibrant aromas of red fruits, such as red apples and strawberries, along with a distinct minerality that comes from the iron-rich slate soils.
- Palate: On the palate, it is elegant yet structured, with a refreshing interplay of racy acidity and ripe fruit flavors. The wine’s mineral finish adds complexity, while its sweetness is beautifully balanced by the fresh acidity.
- Finish: The finish is long and precise, showcasing the muscular structure of the wine and its intense mineral backbone.
Did You Know?
The Erdener Treppchen vineyard is named after the steep steps that were built centuries ago to help workers access the vineyard’s challenging slopes. The red slate soils in this vineyard are unique to the Mosel, imparting a distinctive mineral intensity to the wines produced here, making them highly sought after among Riesling enthusiasts.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Spicy Asian cuisine: The vibrant acidity and slight sweetness of the wine make it an ideal match for spicy dishes like Thai curry or Szechuan chicken.
- Fresh seafood: The minerality and freshness of this Riesling complement delicate seafood dishes such as oysters or shrimp.
- Soft cheeses: The balance of acidity and sweetness pairs beautifully with creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert.
