The Wine Experts: German and Austrian Session 2

This is part 2 of a series of lectures and tastings hosted by Ewald Moseler of the Mitchell Wine Group in Portland Oregon. The series is designed to educate people about German and Austrian wines, and is open to anybody. Session 2 is focused on the new designation of first class vineyards. The price is very reasonable, but they do request you provide your own glasses. All sessions consist of a lecture, slideshow, and tasting. Sometimes guest speakers will be brought in, but the speaker for Session 2 couldn't make it. Ewald grew up in the Mosel valley and has a strong connection to these wines, and loves to share what he knows.

• 2007 Emrich-Schönleber Riesling Lenz 84 Points

  Germany, Nahe

  The nose presents light floral notes, minerality, and light citrus. When tasted, sweetness strikes immediately, and then becomes very light. The acidity is evident, but not overwhelming. It seems a little disjointed, and I detected a bit of bitterness towards the end.

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• 2007 Domdechant Werner Hochheimer Kirchenstück Riesling Spätlese trocken 89 Points

  Germany, Rheingau

  The nose brings distinct grapefruit! It also presents something baked that reminds me of shortbread. The wine certianly delivers on the "trocken" and is a nice clean and dry beverage. The citrus notes are evident on the palatte, and the finish is dry to the bone. Quite enjoyable.

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• 2007 Meulenhof Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Kabinett 87 Points

  Germany, Mosel Saar Ruwer

  This wine smells a little floral. I'm leaning towards violets, but I'm not terribly confident in that specification. The nose also has hints of honey, and is a little musty. The flavors are bright, and linger well in the mouth. The honey appears, and in the mid palatte there's a bit of sharpness. To me, the wine seems to "want" to be just a little richer, and is just a little off balance. I'd love to try the spaetlese.

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• 2007 Domdechant Werner Hochheimer Hölle Riesling Kabinett 89 Points

  Germany, Rheingau

  This wine smells like a fresh cut pineapple! It tastes like paneapple too, and hints at a bit more richness than one would expect. The wine finishes well and has a nicely balanced acidity.

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• 2007 Schloss Schönborn Hattenheimer Pfaffenberg Riesling Spätlese 91 Points

  Germany, Rheingau

  The nose is a little dusty with floral notes and dominant green apple scents. The wine tastes of rich green apples and honey. The wine is very balanced, and finishes crisply. There's a hint of sharpness right before the finish sets in, but there is a wonderful juicy trail of flavors for over 15s after drinking. Very nice wine.

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• 2007 Selbach-Oster Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese 91 Points

  Germany, Mosel Saar Ruwer

  The nose is rich with hints of nutmeg. This wine is very austere for an auslese. It's delicate and beautifully clean with light apple and mineral notes dancing around. The flavors are subtle, and the structure is light as air. Not to be mistaken with "empty" wines, this is an enjoyable experience with finesse.

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The lecture, slides, and presentation were all wonderful. I'm very excited for the rest of the series.