The Wine Spectator has rated our Dr. Loosen Blue Slate Riesling Kabinett at 90 points, and it will be one of the Smart Buys featured in the Jan. 31 issue!
Here’s what they have to say:
Dr. Loosen Riesling Kabinett Mosel Blue Slate 2010 • $22 Juicy and fresh-tasting, with plenty of crisp apple and rich citrus flavors that glide effortlessly over the palate. Shows notes of kumquat on the finish. Drink now through 2022. 2,500 cases imported.—K.M.
And while we’re on the subject, a fan of ours in Napa Valley recently wrote to us with this lovely review of his own:
“I am a real fan of the Blue Slate – to the extent that my next trip to Germany will involve a tour of the Mosel River valley and Bernkastel. My 87-year-old father has a glass of Blue Slate every evening.” L. Jolley
The Mosel Valley’s Blue Slate
Blue slate is the most typical type of slate in the Middle Mosel, and is the primary soil in the villages of Bernkastel, Graach and Wehlen. Rich in potassium, it provides vital nutrients to the vines and gives the wines a pronounced mineral edge that enhances the naturally high acidity of Riesling.
In addition to the heat-retaining blue slate soil, the vineyards of Germany’s Mosel Valley are characterized by incredibly steep slopes, a favorable position near the river and excellent drainage. This combination results in zippy, mineral-drenched wines that are fruity, crisp and very refreshing to drink.
2009 Blue Slate Riesling Kabinett
Now in its third vintage, the Blue Slate Kabinett is our answer to the increasing challenge of producing true Kabinett in the grand cru single-vineyard sites. In today’s generally warmer climate, it is more difficult to harvest these vineyards before they reach Spätlese or even Auslese ripeness. By moving farther up the slope, where it is cooler, we can select fruit that is perfectly ripe for Kabinett.
This wine comes from parcels owned by Dr. Loosen in the blue slate villages of Bernkastel, Graach and Wehlen. It is bright and pure with the classic white peach fruit and floral, flinty minerality that is so typical from blue slate. A plush attack on the mid-palate leads to a deliciously firm, delicate finish. This wine makes an elegant aperitif and is an excellent match for seafood, spicy Asian cuisine and lighter dishes.
Have you tried our Blue Slate yet? Let us know how you like it!
