Viniou Reviews
The 1999 Joh. Jos. Prüm Wehlener Sonnenuhr Spätlese from the Mosel is an exquisite example of German sweet Riesling at its finest. Crafted from Riesling grapes harvested from the famous Wehlener Sonnenuhr vineyard, this wine showcases the hallmark qualities that define both the producer and the terroir. The vintage 1999 was marked by a long, cool growing season, allowing the grapes to develop remarkable aromatic complexity balanced by vibrant acidity. The Spätlese designation indicates that the grapes were picked at a later stage of ripeness, resulting in a wine with compelling sweetness and richly layered flavours. Joh. Jos. Prüm is celebrated for a careful, reductive vinification process that preserves the freshness, minerality, and ageing potential of the wine.
Mosel is one of Germany's most revered wine regions, known for its impossibly steep, slate-covered vineyards that trace the banks of the Mosel River. The slate soils absorb heat during the day and radiate it back at night, promoting slow, even ripening of the grapes – an essential factor in a cool climate like this. The region's winemaking tradition dates back to Roman times, and over centuries, Mosel producers have mastered the art of crafting ethereal, vibrant wines, particularly from Riesling. Mosel wines are renowned for their delicacy, finesse, and remarkable balance between sugar and zesty acidity.
This Spätlese is a versatile companion at the table. Its natural sweetness and lively acidity find harmony with dishes such as spicy Thai cuisine, aromatic duck à l’orange, or a classic German pairing like pork with apple and sage. It can also beautifully accompany rich, creamy cheeses such as blue cheese, or serve as a perfect match for fruit-based desserts like tarte tatin or poached pears, echoing the wine’s stone fruit and citrus notes.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this Riesling slightly chilled, at a temperature of 8-10°C. Pour it into medium-sized white wine glasses to appreciate its pristine aromatics. Decanting is not necessary; simply allow the wine a few minutes in the glass to open up and reveal its complexity. This is a wine that promises to age gracefully for many years, but already delivers a stunning drinking experience.
