At a glance

Producer

Joh. Jos. Christoffel Erben

Region

Mosel, Germany

Grape variety

Riesling

Wine type

White

Body

Light-bodied and Crisp

Sweetness

Sweet

Typical price

$25-$45

Tasting profile

Aromas of white peach, apricot, floral notes, fresh slate minerality, and a hint of petrol.

Evolution: Over 5-10 years, will gain complexity with deeper honeyed notes and intensified minerality.

At peak: Expect exceptional balance of sweetness and acidity with a persistent, elegant finish.

Structure

Acidity

High, vibrant acidity characteristic of Mosel Rieslings

Tannins

None (white wine)

Alcohol

8-9.5%

Aging potential

Excellent aging potential due to balance of acidity, sugar, and alcohol

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2044

Optimal window

2022 to 2047

Current status

Drinking well, youthful vibrance with developing complexity

Current condition

Fresh acidity, ripe fruit, with emerging minerality and petrol notes

The 2019 vintage from Mosel was quality above average with cool climate preserving acidity and moderate ripeness. The Urziger Würzgarten vineyard imparts spice and mineral complexity. The Spätlese ripeness level ensures sufficient sugar for long aging, balanced by Mosel’s signature acidity. This combination supports a 20+ year drinking window.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with spicy Asian dishes, foie gras, smoked salmon, blue cheese, and fruit desserts.

Serving

Serving temperature

8-10°C / 46-50°F

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

The producer focuses on minimizing herbicide use, encourages natural predators, and employs careful canopy management to reduce disease. They use moderate dosing in the winery to preserve natural character and reduce environmental impact.

Overall, Joh. Jos. Christoffel Erben demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability primarily via eco-conscious vineyard practices and efficient winery management. While not fully organic or biodynamic, their conservation efforts, sourcing, and moderate packaging efforts earn them a high sustainability score. The wine’s carbon footprint is moderate considering export logistics but benefits from local sourcing of raw materials and controlled farming.