Merkelbach Estate “Riesling Trocken”

MOSEL, GERMANY |  2023

For 50 years, the brothers Alfred and Rolf Merkelbach made wine in their home village of Ürzig with few changes to their approach. They continued to tend their vines well into their seventies, with the vineyard holdings of their one-hectare estate divided between the ancient sites of Ürziger Würzgarten (stony, weathered red slate), Erdener Treppchen, and Kinheimer Rosenberg. They were traditionalists in the best sense, focused on producing refreshing styles of Riesling. Rolf died in October 2023 and Alfred in May 2024, and the Selbach family is now steward of the estate, continuing to make the wines in the traditional style for which the brothers were known.

This dry (trocken) Riesling is made from fruit from the various vineyards, composed of slate soils. Each parcel is vinified separately, and fermentation is spontaneous. The wine is aged in Mosel fuder (large barrels).

The nose shows notes of lemon and lime peel, fresh green apple, jasmine, candle wax, and petrol. The palate is light and dry, with a clean, crisp, citrusy finish. This wine will pair equally well with seafood dishes, from sushi or grilled fish with fennel and potatoes, and chicken, vegetable, or pork dishes featuring a range of herbs and sauces.