Winemaker Johannes Selbach
Winery Weingut Selbach-Oster
Appellation Mosel-Saar-Ruwer
Country Germany
Grape Varietal Riesling
HISTORY
At Weingut Selbach-Oster, the family has been growing vines since 1661 and Riesling is now planted on 20 hectares. The Selbach-Oster vineyards are located on some of the best land in the heart of the Mosel wine country called "Mittelmosel".
TERROIR
The soil is made of finely weathered slate and vine is grown on steep, south facing mountain slopes that face the Mosel River.
VITICULTURE & VINIFICATION
More than half of the vineyards are still planted with very old, ungrafted vines, yielding a very concentrated fruit from small berries. Average yield is 63 hectoliters per hectare. The wines undergo a cold, slow fermentation and stay on the lees for an extended period of time. 55% of the grapes are fermented in the traditional 1000 liter "Fuder" barrel made from German old oak. The balance is fermented in stainless steel tanks and a small portion in fiberglass tanks.
AGEING
Wines age in stainless steel tanks.
VINTAGE
The first half of 2007 set new records for earliest, warmest and driest. Then a "standard" German summer reigned during July, August and the first week of September. The harvest started on September 24th and finished on November 10th. The grapes were ripe and healthy, the acidity initially tart, then mellowing to wonderfully juicy with just the right touch of crispness to balance the fruit even at the higher sugar levels.
STYLE
Eye: Bright gold green.
Nose: Fragrant bouquet hinting of aromatic apples and a touch of smokiness.
Palate: Generous fruit and crisp acidity create a lively sensation on the palate. Crisp, dry finish.
FOOD PAIRING
A very versatile dry wine to sip alone as well as with a wide array of food, especially fresh water fish and other delicacies from the ocean. Great with smoked meat such as ham and sausages.
WHEN TO DRINK
Now and up to 6 years, all year long.
TECHNICALS
Alcohol: 11.5%, Total acidity: 7.0 g/l, PH: 3.29, Residual sugar: 8.4 g/l
French Blonde 2008
Kavalier 2007
