Tonight we’re continuing our look at riesling, and heading back to Germany. This one from Weingut Josef Leitz is from the Rheingau region of Germany. Rheingau basically translates to mean “Rhine region” and this region is situated along the banks of the Rhine river. Riesling is also the dominant grape here, accounting for nearly 80% of wine grapes grown in this region.
Like many winemaking families in Germany, the Leitz family has a long history of winemaking — dating back to 1744. But there have been some disruptions to that tradition over the years and it hasn’t always been a primary focus of the family. But since 1985 it has been, when Johannes Leitz took over the winery. And within the past 10 years, the winery has grown dramatically.
One thing that can be a bit challenging with this wine is the name. It’s not atypical for German wines to have ridiculously long names. But as bad as this one looks, it’s not that hard to say. Try it. Weingut Josef Leitz Rüdesheimer Rosengarten Kabinett.
This riesling is also a little more expensive than our typical wines here, with a suggested retail of $22.00. But with that as the “suggested” price, there’s a good chance that it actually sells for under 20 bucks.
A glance at the alcohol level might have you suspecting this to be a sweet riesling, but you’d be wrong. Wines with a “Kabinett” designation are the lightest wines you’ll find from Germany, and they are typically semi-sweet, but can be dry or off dry. This one is off dry.
The aromas are light, with characteristics of soft honeysuckle, citrus and salts. It has a slight, but very well balanced sweetness on the palate. The flavors are green apple and grapefruit up front with a finish that’s a blend of salty minerals and citrus. It’s an outstanding, light and refreshing wine.
Wine: Weingut Josef Leitz Rüdesheimer Rosengarten Kabinett
Variety: Riesling
Vintage: 2007
Alcohol: 8.5%
Rating: 90
Price: $22.00
Find Weingut Josef Leitz Rüdesheimer Rosengarten Kabinett with Snooth
Disclosure: This wine was received as a sample.