von Hövel Scharzhofberg Riesling
- Region
- Germany, Mosel
- Appellation
- Kabinett
- Grapes
- 100% Riesling
- Color
- White
- Mevushal
- No
- Supervision
- OK; Rabbi Don Yoel Levy
Expert Notes
The Saar winery von Hövel in Konz-Oberemmel is part of the Association of German Prädikatsweingüter & is now in the 7th generation. Winemaker Maximilian von Kunow, winner of the Wine Award “Newcomer of the Year 2016”, values naturally grown grapes that are gently handled and pressed. The wines mature in the vaulted cellar, which is more than 1100 years old.
Tasting Notes
Taste: elegant, filigree structure paired with irresistible spice is crossed by a ripe grapefruit note and a hint of blood orange; in the finish, a deep minerality and a deep saltiness are combined.
Food Pairing
Ideal with soft fish such as sole with classic sauces, with light veal and chicken breast.
Serve chilled, 8 to 10°C (46 to 50°F).
The Region
The wines are distinguished by their mineral flavors, acidity and light body, in dry to sweet styles. Notable vineyards include Bernkasteler Doctor, Piesporter Goldtröpfchen, Wehlener Sonnenuhr and Scharzhofberger (in Wiltingen). Key white varieties are Riesling and Müller-Thurgau.
The Grape
Riesling is a light-skinned, aromatic grape of German origin which is – if the majority of top wine critics are to be believed – the world's finest white wine grape variety. For many, the claim above may seem at odds with the sea of chaptalized, low-quality wine exported from Germany in the late 20th Century. In truth, very little of that infamous wine was Riesling at all, but instead higher-yielding grapes such as Müller-Thurgau and Silvaner), but the reputation has nonetheless stuck. Riesling has also been stereotyped as just a sweet grape, used only to make sticky wines. But while botrytized Rieslings are among the finest sweet wines in the world, the majority of global Riesling wines are either dry or off-dry.
