The Dr. Loosen estate has been in the same family for over 200 years. When Ernst Loosen (pronounced loh-zen) assumed ownership in 1988, he realized that with ungrafted vines averaging 60 years old in some of Germany’s best-rated vineyards, he had the raw materials to create stunningly intense, world-class wines.

To achieve this, Ernst dramatically reduced his crop size and stopped all chemical fertilization, preferring only moderate use of organic fertilizers. And, most importantly, he turned to gentler cellar practices that allow the wine to develop its full potential with a minimum of handling and technological meddling.
In June, 2007, Ste. Michelle Wine Estates and Dr. Loosen hosted the first Riesling Rendezvous, a gathering of producers, media, trade and Riesling-loving consumers. The event was very well received by all who participated, so we have decided to do it again this year! The 2008 Riesling Rendezvous will be held July 27-29, at the beautiful Chateau Ste. Michelle winery in Woodinville, Washington (near Seattle).
For more information, and to register for this very special Riesling event, please visit rieslingrendezvous.com.
The most remarkable thing about the 2007 harvest in Germany was the extraordinary hang time that the fruit experienced.  The rule of thumb is that you need at least 105 days between flowering and harvest. In 2007 we started picking after about 130 days, with the main part of the harvest averaging 150 days of hang time.  For all the details, please read our complete harvest report.

 

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