Wines Mosel Willi Schaefer - Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Kabinett - 2016

Willi Schaefer’s Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Kabinett 2016 presents itself as an archetype of Mosel’s celebrated off-dry white wines. Crafted from fruit likely sourced exclusively from the esteemed Graacher Himmelreich vineyard, this wine embodies the grace, purity and energy for which the middle Mosel is renowned. Riesling, the grape at the heart of this cuvée, thrives on the region’s slate soils, yielding wines with a captivating interplay of ripe orchard fruit, citrus, delicate mineral undertones and refreshing acidity. The term Kabinett denotes a lighter, delicately sweet style, typically combining low alcohol with pronounced finesse—ideal for those seeking a wine of poise and aromatic expressiveness. Magnum bottling ensures a slow, harmonious evolution, promising complexity for years to come.

The Mosel region, nestled along the sinuous Mosel river, is famed for its precipitous, slate-laden hillsides. The river reflects sunlight onto the vines, assisting ripening in this relatively cool northerly climate. This unique terroir produces Rieslings noted for their aromatic intensity, ethereal lightness and vibrant yet filigree acidity. The vineyard sites, such as the Graacher Himmelreich, have historically been prized for their capacity to yield wines of very pure, bright fruit expression and mineral clarity. Winemaking in Mosel often favours minimal intervention, allowing the terroir and vintage character to take centre stage.

This gently off-dry style harmonises beautifully with a range of dishes. Classic pairings from the region include bratwurst with sauerkraut or pork schnitzel, the wine’s subtle sweetness and acidity balancing richer flavours and cutting through fat. Thai or Vietnamese dishes—particularly those with ginger, lemongrass or a hint of chilli—also find an ideal partner, as the wine’s sugar and zest elegantly offset spiciness and aromatic herbs. For a lighter touch, fresh goat’s cheese or a salad of apple, celery and walnuts are delightful companions.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Riesling Kabinett cooled to 8-10°C to highlight its perfume and precision. A magnum bottle such as this benefits from gentle aeration; consider decanting if consuming young, and always use glasses that promote aromatic development. This wine is delicious now but will also reward patient cellaring, evolving greater complexity and harmony with time.