2018 Dr. Loosen "Dr. L" Dry Riesling

 

2018 Dr. Loosen "Dr. L" Dry Riesling




Vintage: 2018
Region: Mosel, Germany
Winery: Dr. Loosen
Varietal: Riesling
Price: $10
Rating: 88 Points
My Rating: 91 Points

The Review: Since I've already written about Riesling from the Alsace region, I figure I should cover the other region that's really renowned for Riesling- the Mosel in Germany. Whereas Alsatian wines are always dry, Riesling from the Mosel will occasionally have a touch of residual sugar to balance the extreme acidity of these wines. This will add a little body and results in a brilliant wine that is amped up to level 100 in all facets. This wine also serves as a great introduction to one of the most recognized producers in Europe- Dr. Loosen. 

The acid levels are so high in Mosel Riesling for two main reasons- the Mosel is one of the northernmost wine regions in the world, so the grapes struggle to ripen fully; and these are some of the steepest vineyards in the world, resulting in wines that really pop. As you'll see with this wine, a little bit of sugar is really appreciated and can make the acid a bit more approachable. Despite saying "Dry" on the label, it's actually more like off-dry.

The nose of the 2018 Dr. L Riesling presents aromas of fresh Meyer lemon with hints of lime zest and a perfumed grapefruit note. There's a lovely floral character and a touch of wet slate- a hallmark of this slate-soiled region. The taste shows grapefruit, lemon (juice and zest), and a little bit of green apple. All of this is backed up by an interesting wet stone minerality. Like I mentioned, this wine has very high acid with a touch of residual sugar.

A fun experiment would be to taste an Alsatian and a Mosel Riesling side by side and compare them. No matter which one you like more, be sure to pair it with a great meal! Something with a spice usually pairs great. And if you don't want to drink it with a meal, use it as an aperitif for your next dinner party.

drink what you like,

db

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