Fritz Haag Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr Riesling Spatlese 2022

Region and Vineyards

The Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr vineyard, situated on the extremely steep Brauneberg hillside, has been a revered site since the Romans first cultivated wine grapes in the Mosel Valley in the second century AD. This vineyard is known for its south-facing slopes, which receive optimal sunlight, enhancing the ripening process and contributing to the distinctive character of the wines produced here.

The Fritz Haag estate, dating back to 1605, spans 29 hectares (72.5 acres) in the heart of the Mosel Valley. The estate exclusively produces Riesling, covering the full style spectrum from dry to lusciously sweet. The wines are characterized by an intense “slate” minerality and pronounced fruity acidity, giving them elegant sophistication and great aging potential. The vineyard’s unique terroir, combined with the Haag family's meticulous farming practices, produces wines that are universally acclaimed as some of the finest in the Mosel region.

Winemaking

The Fritz Haag Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr Riesling Spätlese is made from 100% Riesling grapes. The term "Spätlese" means "late picking," indicating that the grapes are allowed extra time on the vine to develop greater concentration and depth of flavor. This vintage was marked by extreme dryness in the summer months and variable weather in the autumn, presenting significant challenges. However, the older vines proved their resilience, reaching deeper layers of soil with sufficient water despite the intense heat.

The grapes were harvested at full ripeness, and the wine was crafted to highlight the concentrated fruit flavors while maintaining a delicate balance. The winemaking process emphasizes the purity and intensity of the fruit, with a moderate sweetness that enhances the wine's complexity and appeal.

Technical Information

• Grape Variety: 100% Riesling
• Alcohol: 7.5%
• Residual Sweetness: 76.0 grams/liter
• Total Acidity: 8.3 grams/liter
• Total Production: 500 cases

Tasting Notes

• Color: Bright and clear.
• Aroma: The bouquet is intensely fruity, with notes of ripe peach, apricot, and citrus, complemented by subtle hints of fresh herbs.
• Palate: The wine is superbly playful, precise, and fresh on the palate, with a beautifully zesty-fruity intensity. It offers a long, elegant finish with lingering fruity elements and a touch of minerality.

Did you know?

The Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr vineyard is the steepest and most south-facing part of the Brauneberg hillside, known for producing some of the most profound and distinctive Rieslings in the Mosel Valley. The name "Sonnenuhr," which means "sundial," reflects the optimal sunlight exposure that these vines receive, crucial for the development of the grapes' intense flavors and aromas.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Spicy Asian Cuisine: The moderate sweetness and fresh acidity of the wine balance the heat and bold flavors of dishes like Thai curry or Szechuan chicken.
• Goat Cheese Salad: The wine’s fruity and herbal notes complement the tangy and creamy flavors of goat cheese, making for a delightful pairing.
• Pork Tenderloin with Apple Compote: The wine’s acidity and fruitiness enhance the savory and sweet elements of this dish, creating a harmonious balance.
• Fruit Tart: The wine’s sweetness and fresh fruit flavors pair beautifully with a variety of fruit-based desserts, particularly those featuring stone fruits or citrus.

History of Fritz Haag Estate

The historic Fritz Haag estate dates back to 1605, making it one of the oldest in the Mosel region. Originally, the village where the estate is situated was known as "Dusemond" (Latin for "sweet hill"). In 1925, it was renamed "Brauneberg" ("brown mountain") to promote the reputation of its world-renowned vineyards: Brauneberger Juffer and Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr.

The name "Juffer," meaning "old maid" or "virgin" in the local dialect, dates back to 1790. It refers to the aristocratic Wunderlich family, whose three daughters, all unmarried, managed the vineyards. Their exceptional management led to the vineyards becoming famous worldwide. The vineyards were treasured even by Napoleon.

For many years, the estate was successfully led by Wilhelm Haag, whose efforts earned it a world-renowned reputation. Wilhelm was the first to win the prestigious "Winemaker of the Year" award from the Gault Millau Wineguide in 1994. His son, Oliver Haag, took over in 2005 and has continued to lead the estate to new heights.

Region and Vineyards

The Fritz Haag estate is located in Brauneberg, Middle Mosel, Germany. The vineyards are situated on the steep, south-facing Brauneberg hillside, characterized by its blue Devonian slate soils. The estate farms 29 hectares (72.5 acres) of vineyards with an average vine age of 45 years, though some vines are up to 100 years old. The vineyards are managed sustainably, and the estate is a member of the VDP (Verband Deutscher Prädikatsweingüter) Mosel. The key vineyards are: 

• Brauneberger Juffer: Produces Trocken “J,” GG, and all Prädikat wines.
• Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr: Produces GG and Prädikat wines (Spätlese and above).
• Kestener Paulinshofberg: Produces GG wines.

Notable Wines from Fritz Haag

• Fritz Haag Brauneberger Juffer Riesling Spätlese: This late-harvested wine has rich fruit flavors and vibrant acidity. The balanced sweetness and elegant minerality make it both rich and refined.
• ​​Fritz Haag Brauneberger Juffer Riesling Auslese: Concentrated and sweet, this wine showcases intense fruit flavors and honey. It is luxurious with balanced acidity, making it both rich and refreshing
• Fritz Haag Brauneberger Juffer Riesling Kabinett: This wine is light and crisp, with fresh green apple, citrus, and white peach flavors. It has a lively acidity and a pronounced minerality that adds to its refreshing profile
• Fritz Haag Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr Riesling Spätlese: Complex and elegant, this wine showcases ripe apricot, peach, and honey flavors. It offers a harmonious balance between sweetness and acidity, with a long and lingering finish
• Fritz Haag Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese: Luxuriously sweet and full-bodied, this wine features intense tropical fruit flavors, honey, and sometimes a touch of botrytis. It is opulent with a balanced acidity that keeps it refreshing
• ​Fritz Haag Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr Riesling Kabinett: Delicate and light-bodied, this wine offers citrus and stone fruit notes. It is crisp and refreshing, with a subtle sweetness that enhances its delicate profile.

Did you know?

The Brauneberger Juffer vineyard has been renowned since Roman times and is known for producing some of the finest Rieslings in the Mosel Valley. The vineyard's name, "Juffer," reflects the historical significance of the land being managed by three unmarried daughters of an aristocratic family.