The Erni Loosen Special

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This Mixed Case focusses on Riesling, the darling of the wine trade, but often regarded with suspicion and caution by consumers.

Dr Ernst Loosen is arguably the world’s biggest champion of Riesling, as well as being winemaker/proprietor of the renowned Dr Loosen winery in the Mosel Valley.

Dr Loosen Red Slate Dry Riesling 2017 is produced with fruit from estate-owned vineyards. Basically a mix of red slate soils found in the contiguous villages of Ürzig, Erden, Lösnich and Kinheim. Following the traditional methods of Ernst Loosen’s great-grandfather, this wine is fermented in 3000-litre, old oak casks and kept on the full lees for 12 months. The extended lees contact stabilizes the wine naturally and gives it time to develop the perfect balance. One of the best German wines, undoubtedly.

Dr Loosen Mosel Riesling 2018 is produced from an estate that has been expressing red and blue slate, volcanic soil sites from some of the steepest vineyards in Europe. Dr Loosen Mosel Riesling shows what the Mosel can produce, generally with a bone dry palate and richness synonymous with Mosel Riesling. It has a floral aroma upfront with layers of subtle spice and orange blossom. The palate is crisp and dry with a mouth-watering mid-palate. Length is concentrated and rich with a dry but scented lemon finish.

Dr Loosen Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Kabinett 2016 is completely unique in nature. The wine shows the typically juicy and exotic fruit of the “spice garden” vineyard, with a rich mouthfeel, a spicy acid tingle and lingering finish. Kabinett is the lightest, most delicate style of Riesling in Germany, produced from the earliest harvested grapes.

Ernst Loosen has been flying the flag of traditional dry styles of Riesling. Spurred on through his discovery of much older German Rieslings and their ability to age so well. This translates to production methods where only healthy grapes make the grade. Spontaneous fermentation is promoted as is extended maturation of the Cuvee in old wooden casks on the lees.

If Riesling has never appealed then this Dr. Loosen wines are a perfect starting point for education. Not to mention extremely special!

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