WEINGUT ERNST CLÜSSERATH (Mosel, Germany)
This acclaimed estate, on the severely steep slopes of the Mosel, was begun in 1956. Ernst Clüsserath (Jr.) and his wife, Heike, have kept it family owned since. It consists of 3.7h of Riesling vines, ranging between 20-40yrs of age, split between the Trittenheim Apotheke and Altˆ§chen sites. With the exception of some rented neighboring rows in 2008, they have remained estate grown to ensure healthy, complex fruit. The roots are dug deep into weathered slate soils and produce naturally low-yeilds. Ernst insists on vine health and management for intense concentration. Wild herbs grow between the rows to invite insect life. Pruning is a daily, meticulous and necessary task, leaving only 8 buds on one remaining shoot. Further green harvesting is done if the harvest is still too productive. He harvests at the time nature claims the grapes are ready, tasting for aromas he will preserve in the wine. He allows only natural yeasts in the fermentation. The wines remain on the lees for 3-4 months. There is never malolactic fermentation allowed, as he wishes the wine to "dance on the palate." He aims for the perfect terrior of Trittenheim: low alcohol, fresh with acidity and layered with the minerals of the slopes. Ernst and Heike are simply and naturally continuing the magnificent heritage of these magical slopes.
Riesling kabinett Feinherb
Trit. Altärchen "Emma Marie" 2008

100% Riesling from the slatey T.A. slopes. Fermentations begun with naturally occurring yeasts in stainless steel. No Malo-lactic. Moved to old oak barrels for 3-4mos with lees contact.