Wines Palatinate Weingut Georg Mosbacher - Forster Pechstein Riesling Auslese - 1997

Weingut Georg Mosbacher’s Cuvée Forster Pechstein Riesling Auslese 1997 is a distinguished sweet white wine, reflective of the outstanding pedigree of both its origin and its vintage. Crafted with meticulous care, this wine is believed to be made primarily from Riesling—a grape celebrated in Germany for its expressive character and exceptional capacity for ageing. The designation “Auslese” suggests a late harvest, where select grapes, often affected by noble rot, have been hand-picked to achieve an intense concentration of sugars and flavours. Coming from the acclaimed Pechstein vineyard in the Pfalz, this half-bottle presents aromas and flavours likely to range from candied citrus, ripe apricot and honeyed stone fruit to more evolved notes such as dried fruits and a delicate minerality, all supported by a vibrant acidity that is a hallmark of well-crafted sweet Riesling.

Pfalz, situated in Southwestern Germany, is one of the country’s premier wine-growing regions. Sheltered by the Haardt mountains, this area enjoys a sunny, relatively warm and dry climate, which greatly benefits the slow and steady ripening of the grapes. The Pechstein vineyard, in particular, is renowned for its soils rich in basalt, lending wines a signature mineral nuance and depth. Pfalz has a storied history, closely tied to monastic winemaking traditions and a dynamic modern wine scene that continues to push for both excellence and innovation.

A sweet Auslese Riesling such as this pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It is a classic companion to rich pâtés like foie gras, or regional German fare such as apple strudel or baked quince. The wine’s sweetness and lively acidity also make it a delightful partner for blue cheeses or even spicy Asian cuisine, where it can balance heat and highlight aromatic flavours.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine well-chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. Allow it a few moments in the glass for its bouquet to unfurl, and consider using a medium-sized white wine glass to fully appreciate its remarkable complexity and evolution.