The Dr. Loosen estate has been in the same family for more than 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 immediately changed the estate’s vineyard practices to dramatically reduce crop size. He stopped all chemical fertilization, preferring only moderate use of organic fertilizers and soil amendments. He extended his commitment to sustainable practices beyond the vineyards and into the winery, implementing improvements in materials recycling, energy efficiency and water conservation. At harvest, he insisted on fully mature fruit that had been very strictly selected. And he turned to gentler cellar practices that would allow the wine to develop its full potential with a minimum of technological meddling.

The next edition of the Riesling Rendezvous for producers, trade and media is set for July 14-16, 2013. Once again, Dr. Loosen and Chateau Ste. Michelle will be your hosts for an amazing three days of total Riesling immersion. We are planning a juicy array of tastings, seminars and workshops that will educate and inspire wine professionals at all levels. An international gathering of the best Riesling producers will be there to show you their wines, and to discuss, debate and debauch together in a hearty exchange of tastes, ideas and experiences.

Some highlights of the upcoming Riesling Rendezvous:
Noted author and Riesling authority, Stuart Pigott, will return as our spiritual guide and master of ceremonies. He will lead an entertaining exploration of daring and innovation in making Riesling, with a session called “Riesling Extreme.” In addition, he will moderate an in-depth discussion on the latest changes in the complex world of German classifications and nomenclature.

The highly respected Riesling researcher, Prof. Ulrich Ficher, from the Center for Wine Research in Neustadt, Germany, will present his latest findings on the connection between terroir and the specific flavors that develop in Riesling.

Rock-star Master Sommelier, Emily Wines, will present a very revealing look at the effect that specific food components, such as sweetnes and acidity, have on the taste perception of various styles of Riesling (and vice versa).

A moderated session called “Preaching beyond the choir” will offer an opportunity for a lively and open discussion among wine professionals about the challenges and opportunities in marketing Riesling to the average wine consumer.

Visit www.rieslingrendezvous.com for updates.

 
 
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In 2010, Ernst Loosen became a partner in J. Christopher, joining forces with veteran Oregon winemaker, Jay Somers. Together they have built a new winery and are establishing their own vineyards on a beautiful Chehalem Mountains property in Oregon’s northern Willamette Valley.

Eroica is a collaboration between Dr. Loosen and Chateau Ste. Michelle in Washington state. Established with the 1999 vintage, Eroica has quickly become the quality benchmark for American Riesling.
Estate visits are by appointment only. If you will be traveling in the area and would like to arrange a visit, please send an email to info@drloosen.de. Kindly tell us the date you would like to visit and how many people you will be. We will do our best to accommodate you.
The VDP is Germanys most prestigious association of top-rated wine estates. Dr. Loosen has been a member since 1992.