At a glance

Producer

Weingut Max Ferdinand Richter

Region

Mosel, Germany

Grape variety

Riesling

Wine type

White

Body

Light-bodied and Crisp

Sweetness

Sweet

Typical price

$25-$40

Tasting profile

Ripe stone fruit, citrus, slate minerality, honeyed sweetness with vibrant acidity

Evolution: Will gain complexity, tertiary notes of petrol, dried herbs, toast with age

At peak: A harmonious balance of sweetness and acidity with rich layered aromas and an elegant finish

Structure

Acidity

High acidity, characteristic of Mosel Riesling

Tannins

None (white wine, no tannins)

Alcohol

8.5-10.5% typical for Spätlese from Mosel

Aging potential

15-20+ years from vintage under proper cellar conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2043

Optimal window

2023 to 2046

Current status

Early drinking window but well approaching peak drinking

Current condition

Fresh with notable fruit, balanced acidity, some developing complexity

Top Mosel Spätlese Rieslings from well-regarded producers like Max Ferdinand Richter often develop complex aromas and roundness after 5-10 years, yet retain freshness and can be enjoyed up to two decades or more. The 2018 vintage quality and producer reputation support a prolonged peak window.

Food pairing

Excellent with spicy Asian cuisine, rich seafood (lobster, crab), foie gras, and ripened cheeses like Munster or aged Gouda.

Serving

Serving temperature

8-10°C / 46-50°F

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Weingut Max Ferdinand Richter employs sustainable farming, minimizing chemical use; uses energy-efficient winery equipment and conservative water use

While not certified organic or biodynamic, the producer emphasizes sustainable farming reflected in low chemical intervention and resource conservation. Domestic distribution contributes to a reasonable carbon footprint with standard glass packaging.