2006 Schloss Schönborn Rudesheimer Berg Schlossberg Riesling Auslese #11, 375ml

Schloss Schönborn is one of Germany’s most historic producers. The aristocratic von Schönborn family traces its lineage back to the 14th century, and the family was involved with viticulture starting in 1349. Schloss Schönborn is the oldest estate in Germany continuously owned by the same family. The family has enlarged the operation over the 27 generations of ownership. Of note was a 17th century acquisition of a large part of the famous Erbacher Marcobrunn vineyard. Today the estate includes about 125 acres of vineyards throughout the Rheingau.

Rheingau is considered one of the finest of Germany’s great wine districts. Its 8,000 vineyard acres are planted primarily to Riesling, and the Rieslings of Rheingau are noted for their steely character. In recent decades producers have also started planted Pinot Noir, called Spatburgunder in Germany. Historically the most famous Rieslings of the Rheingau have been the very sweet Beerenauslesen and Trockenbeerenauslesen styles, but as the market for dry wines has increased, younger Rheingau winemakers have begun producing dry Riesling, harkening back to methods used before the 20th century. By 2005 nearly 85% of the Rheingau Rieslings have been dry wines.

This white variety originated in Germany. It’s known for its strong flowery aromas and high acidity. Please note Rieslings can have dramatic differences as the grape can be used to make dry, semi-sweet, sweet and sparkling wines.