Wines Mosel Carl Loewen 1896 - 2020

Carl Loewen 1896 2020 is a dry white wine hailing from the storied Mosel region of Germany, specifically within the Mosel appellation. This wine is made from Riesling, the emblematic grape of this area, revered for its capacity to express finesse and a remarkable sense of place. The 2020 vintage benefits from a warm growing season punctuated by cool nights, which has fostered grapes with excellent ripeness, vibrant acidity, and expressive aromatics. Carl Loewen is particularly known for cultivating old, ungrafted vines on steep, slate-laden slopes, and this cuvée is no exception. The precise vineyard dates back to 1896, making the vines among the oldest in the region. The winemaking respects tradition, often employing spontaneous fermentation with wild yeasts and a gentle touch, resulting in a wine that is both texturally nuanced and intensely expressive.

The Mosel region is renowned for its sinuous river valley, with precipitous vineyards that catch the sun on slate soils, contributing notable minerality and a delicate structure to the wines. The climate here is marginal, with cool temperatures and significant diurnal swings, which enable the grapes to retain acidity and aromatic complexity. Historically, Mosel has been at the heart of German winemaking since Roman times, and its reputation for top-quality, ageworthy Rieslings is unmatched.

For food pairings, Carl Loewen 1896 2020’s dry yet aromatic profile makes it an ideal partner for a wide array of dishes. It shines alongside regional specialities such as smoked trout, sauerbraten with a light touch of spice, or pork with apple and fennel. Its crisp acidity and slatey minerality also suit Asian cuisine—think lightly spiced Thai salads or sushi. Fresh goat cheese, asparagus, or simply prepared shellfish will also complement its purity and elegance.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine well-chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. To fully appreciate its aromatic bouquet and the tension between fruit and mineral notes, use tulip-shaped glasses and give the wine a little time in the glass to open up. This Mosel Riesling can be enjoyed now for its freshness, but it will reward further cellaring, developing greater complexity and nuance with age.