Fritz Haag’s 2015 Cuvée Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr is a notable white wine hailing from the celebrated Mosel region in Germany. Known primarily for its exceptionally delicate and finely structured white wines, the estate nestles on the iconic Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr vineyard, a site revered since the 19th century for producing some of the Mosel’s most elegant bottlings. While details about the exact grape blend remain uncertain, the Mosel is world-famous for its use of Riesling, especially when it comes to luscious, lightly sweet, or “moelleux” styles. In 2015, a vintage marked in the region for warm, even ripening, the wine likely displays classic hallmarks: fragrant citrus blossom, stone fruit, and hints of tropicality, balanced by a crystalline acidity and a lightness characteristic of the area's slate-laden soils.
The Mosel Valley’s unique environment greatly shapes its wines. Steep, south-facing slopes and meandering river bends optimise sunlight, while the blue Devonian slate soils are said to impart wines with a mineral edge and remarkable finesse. The region’s cool, marginal climate often stretches the growing season, encouraging slow grape maturation and thus, wines of aromatic complexity, vibrancy, and poise. With centuries of winemaking tradition, Mosel remains one of the benchmarks for delicately sweet white wines that harmonise residual sugar with a cleansing freshness.
This style of wine excels at the table, offsetting both savoury and sweet flavours. Serve alongside gently spiced Asian dishes, such as Thai coconut curry or Peking duck, where the wine’s refreshing acidity and balancing sweetness complement the heat and aromatics. Traditional German fare, like pork with apple compote or a slice of tarte flambée, also echoes the duo of sweetness and acidity. Alternatively, enjoy with blue cheese or a fruit-driven dessert – think apple strudel – for a classic regional pairing.
For maximum enjoyment, serve this wine lightly chilled, between 8 and 10°C. This temperature highlights both the bright aromatics and the silky texture. Allow the wine a moment to unfold in the glass and it will reward your patience with evolving complexity and Mosel charm.
