Region and Vineyards:
The Ürziger Würzgarten vineyard, often referred to as the "spice garden," is one of the most striking and unique in the Mosel Valley. Its red volcanic sandstone soil is rare in the region and imparts a distinct exotic fruit character to the wines produced here. The steep slopes of the vineyard provide ideal exposure to the sun, helping the grapes reach perfect ripeness while retaining high acidity, a signature of Mosel Rieslings.
The vines in Ürziger Würzgarten are over 100 years old and grow on their original rootstocks, producing low yields of concentrated grapes. This terroir is especially suited for producing botrytis-affected wines, such as Auslese, where the noble rot adds complexity and depth to the fruit flavors.
Winemaking:
This Riesling Auslese is crafted from carefully selected, overripe clusters, with about 50% of the grapes affected by botrytis (noble rot). This process concentrates the sugars and flavors in the grapes, giving the wine its rich sweetness and complexity. The grapes are harvested late in the season to maximize ripeness and are gently pressed before fermentation in stainless steel tanks.
The fermentation is stopped early by chilling, preserving a significant amount of residual sugar (76.7 g/L), which balances the wine's natural acidity (9.6 g/L). The result is a wine with 8.0% alcohol, making it both luscious and refreshing. This Auslese is known for its excellent aging potential, with the sweetness and acidity allowing it to develop greater complexity over time.
Tasting Notes:
- Color: Bright golden yellow, with a vibrant hue reflecting the wine’s ripeness.
- Aroma: The nose is complex and fragrant, with aromas of lemon balm, chamomile, and white flowers, complemented by notes of passion fruit.
- Palate: On the palate, the wine is rich and luscious, with intense tropical fruit flavors, including passion fruit and a touch of raisin. The sweetness is perfectly balanced by the bright acidity, leading to a long, persistent finish with a subtle hint of flinty minerality.
Did you know?
The Ürziger Würzgarten vineyard is famous not only for its volcanic soil but also for its steep slopes, which have been terraced for centuries. The vineyard's name, meaning "spice garden," reflects the exotic, spicy character of the wines produced from this unique terroir. The Dr. Loosen estate, under the leadership of Ernst Loosen, has been in the family for over 200 years and is known for its dedication to producing some of Germany’s finest Rieslings.
Wine Pairing Ideas:
- Spicy Asian dishes: The sweetness of the wine complements the heat in spicy dishes, while the acidity keeps the palate refreshed.
- Foie gras: The richness of foie gras is elevated by the wine's luscious texture and vibrant acidity, creating a luxurious pairing.
- Blue cheese: The intense flavors of blue cheese are softened by the wine’s sweet fruit, offering a delightful contrast.
- Fruit-based desserts: Pairing this wine with a tart like apple strudel or pear tart enhances the wine’s natural fruitiness.
