2010 Meulenhof Erdener Prälat Riesling Auslese

This wine is the companion bottle from the recent Wines of Germany shipment of the Sekt I got to try. The PR firm is currently busy with a US tour by Annika Strebel, the 63rd German Wine Queen.

Although the date on the logo of Weingut Meulenhof says 1238, the website claims that the winery dates back to 1337, and operated as a convent between 1477 and 1802 when Napoleon auctioned it off to a local merchant. The current owners are the Justen family, who have been making wine since 1950.

This bottle is classified as Prädikatswein, the new name for the old Qualitätswein mit Prädikat designation and the highest level of German wines.

Erdener Prälat means "The Bishop of Erden" and is a small vineyard in the Mosel Valley that is nestled between red slate cliffs. Nearby are other vineyards like Ürziger Würzgarten (Spice Garden) and Erdener Treppchen (Little Steps of Erden).

2010 Meulenhof Erdener Prälat Riesling Auslese
Mosel Valley
$33, 7.5% abv.
50 Cases Made

This is a spectacular wine, and it's a shame that so few will get a chance to try it. It is a bit sweet, but the acidity and structure of the wine are so perfectly balanced that it's not cloying or thick. The low alcohol content really allows you to enjoy the complex aromas of dried peach, ripe apricot, tropical fruits, and hints of spice. There's a lot going on with this wine and it merits some quiet attention. On the palate there's a wonderful mineral structure, good acidity, and ripe fruit flavors that continue with a long finish.

While I'm sure there are some mild cheeses that would pair well with this wine, I think it would be better enjoyed on its own as a magnificent example of German Riesling. Highly recommended.

Note: This wine was received as a sample.