Germany: Selbach-Oster - Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese 2019, Mosel (Organic)

Read Alex's Producer Profile on Selbach-Oster.

100% Riesling from a famed, incredibly steep single-vineyard called Zeltinger Sonnenuhr. Incredibly refreshing and only lightly sweet; this is not a dessert wine. Only 8% alcohol.

This has refreshment quality akin to a lemon sorbet and I drink this on its own or perhaps with a slice or two of a salty cheese, or pâté with a fruity chutney. I also drink it with spicy Asian dishes, Thai in particular - Auslese Riesling's sweetness and uplifting acidity works so well with exotic flavours and spice. 

It is neither sweet nor rich enough to go with very rich puddings e.g. christmas pudding or crème brûlée, but is delicious with fruit-based desserts such as a strawberry or raspberry tart. 

The vineyards on the banks of the river Mosel that run from near the city of Trier to the river's confluence with the Rhine at Koblenz might be the most spectacular on earth, with many of the vineyards on such steep slopes that it beggars belief people are bothering with growing anything at all.

Most vineyard work here remains manual and hand-harvesting is commonplace for reasons of quality as well as being the only viable option! 

Much of the production is artisanal and most are ecologically run family estates; it's a real labour of love to grow grapes here. Without the steep banks of the river, though, the region might struggle to ripen Riesling, a late-ripening variety, as the sun's rays are intensified while also being reflected off the river and onto the slopes, aiding ripening. 

Selbach-Oster is family-run and owned, with a history dating back to the 17th century.

This has a fresh juiciness alongside its gentle sweetness, with such lovely lift, clarity and delicacy, yet also with magical tension and freshness thanks to its mineral-etched acidity.

This wine is lovely now but also has extraordinary ageing potential (2045+). 

Food Pairing:

Thai green curry with coconut prawns, fragrant spicy Asian foods, shellfish and fish, pork and poultry, blue and creamy cheeses, richer cured meats, fruit-forward desserts BUT this is not a richly-sweet pudding wine so not to be paired with anything very sweet!

What the critics say:

96 points: Wine Advocate

95 points: James Suckling

95 points: Wine Spectator