Region and Vineyards
The Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr vineyard is located on the steep south-facing slopes of the Brauneberg hillside in the Mosel Valley, Germany. This Grosse Lage (grand cru) site is renowned for its exceptional terroir, where the slate-rich soils retain and reflect heat, fostering optimal ripening conditions for Riesling grapes. The vineyard’s unique positioning ensures extended sunlight exposure, resulting in a perfect balance of ripeness and vibrant acidity.
The vineyard’s history traces back to the Romans, who recognized its potential in the second century. The Juffer Sonnenuhr, or "maiden’s sundial," occupies the choicest portion of the hillside, producing wines of unparalleled concentration, purity, and minerality.
Winemaking
This 100% Riesling Auslese is produced using hand-selected, fully ripe grapes from old vines that have developed deep roots into the slate soils. These vines thrive despite challenging conditions, such as the extreme dryness of the 2022 vintage, which demonstrated their resilience.
The wine is fermented at cool temperatures to preserve its aromatic intensity and freshness. The fermentation halts naturally to retain a residual sweetness of 97 grams per liter, balanced by a lively acidity of 7.8 grams per liter, resulting in a wine with 7.5% alcohol. The careful balance between sweetness, acidity, and minerality is a hallmark of Fritz Haag’s Auslese wines.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Pale gold with shimmering green reflections.
- Aroma: Aromatic notes of floral honey, ripe peach, and tropical fruit, with hints of citrus zest and wet slate.
- Palate: Luscious and elegant, with flavors of pineapple, apricot, and a touch of exotic spice, balanced by vibrant acidity and a long, minerally finish.
Did You Know?
The 2022 vintage presented extreme weather challenges, but the deep-rooted old vines of Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr excelled, showcasing their adaptability. These conditions resulted in wines with intense concentration, elegance, and longevity, making the vintage particularly collectible.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Foie gras with apple compote: The wine’s sweetness and acidity cut through the richness, enhancing the savory-sweet interplay.
- Thai green curry with shrimp: Its tropical fruit notes and vibrant acidity complement the spiciness and coconut richness of the dish.
- Blue cheese with honey and walnuts: The balance of sweetness and minerality pairs beautifully with the cheese's bold flavors and the honey’s sweetness.
- Peach tart with almond cream: The wine echoes the fruity sweetness of the tart while its acidity provides a refreshing contrast.