Wines Mosel Carl Loewen - Maximin 1896 Herrenberg Alte Reben Trocken - 2020

Viniou Reviews

The Carl Loewen Cuvée Maximin 1896 Herrenberg Alte Reben Trocken 2020 is a remarkable dry white wine from Germany's renowned Mosel region. Made exclusively from old-vine Riesling grown on the historic Herrenberg vineyard, some of these ungrafted vines date as far back as 1896, imparting distinct depth and complexity to the wine. The 2020 vintage is marked by a balance of ripeness and vibrant acidity, a hallmark of Mosel Rieslings. The winemaking process under Carl Loewen is traditional, with natural fermentation in old wooden casks, enhancing the wine’s texture and sense of place while preserving the purity and intensity of the fruit. The nose is expressive, with notes of crisp green apple, lemon zest, white peach and subtle minerality. The palate is defined by tension and elegance, with fine citrus and stone fruit, a pronounced slate-driven minerality, and a precise, lingering finish.

The Mosel valley is one of the world’s most celebrated wine regions, famous for its precipitous slate slopes that absorb and reflect sunlight, enabling Riesling grapes to reach full maturity even in a cool northern climate. The region’s soils are predominantly composed of blue and red slate, which not only channel heat to the vines but also contribute a characteristic flinty minerality to the wines. With a viticultural history dating back to Roman times, Mosel’s winemaking reputation rests on its ability to produce Riesling of exceptional finesse, clarity and ageing potential. The interplay between the cool climate, steep vineyard sites, and slate soils yields distinctive wines that are both delicate and deeply expressive.

For food pairing, this trocken (dry) Mosel Riesling is highly versatile. Its crisp acidity and mineral drive make it an excellent match for seafood such as grilled river trout, sashimi, or oysters. Traditional German dishes like Zanderfilet mit Rieslingsauce (pike-perch in Riesling sauce) or even schnitzel with a squeeze of lemon pair beautifully. Asian cuisine, particularly lightly spiced Thai or Vietnamese dishes, also complements the freshness and precise structure of this wine.

To fully appreciate its aromatics and minerality, serve this Riesling well-chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. Open the bottle shortly before serving to allow it to breathe. If possible, use a tulip-shaped white wine glass to focus its delicate bouquet. This wine will continue to evolve with several years of cellaring, developing greater complexity and nuance over time.