Weingut Karthäserhof is located in Eitelsbach, a small village on the Ruwer, a tributary of the upper Mosel River, near the town of Trier. The upper Mosel is located along the French and Luxembourg borders. Mosel is Germany’s oldest wine growing region, dating back to the Celts and Romans over 2000 years ago.
The Mosel climate is noted for its northern location. However, it is the steep slopes (some rising to a 70 degree grade) that are exposed to the sun, along with the heat trapped in the shelly limestone soils of the upper Mosel and the sun reflecting on the river that make the Mosel valley one of Germany’s warmest climate zones. The result is Rieslings that are fruity, but balanced with racing acidity and hints of minerality.
2015 Karthäuserhof Riesling Ruder QbA, 10% ABV, Retail $30
Very pale yellow in color. Citrus blossoms on the nose with nice fruity flavors of apricot and Meyer lemon. Off dry, but balanced with nice acidity.
Paired with an Apple, Sage, Fontina Risotto. The acidity of the wine cuts the sweetness and richness of the cheese perfectly.
2012 Karthäserhof Riesling Trocken Grosses Gewächs, 12% ABV, Retail $85
Pale golden in color. Slight petrol on the nose. Flavors of lime, green apple, white stone fruit and a hint of ginger. Dry with nice acidity.
Paired with Curry Ginger Crab cakes. The ginger and citrus flavors in the wine were accentuated with the crab cakes. Interesting and refreshing pairing.
The wine samples were provided by Massanois Imports as part of #winestudio, an educational program organized by Tina Morey. Join the #winestudio conversation Tuesday at 9pm EST on Twitter.
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