Introduction:
The 2023 Weingut Melsheimer Reiler Mullay‑Hofberg Riesling Kabinett is a beautifully poised wine from one of the Mosel’s storied vineyards. Displaying the signature clarity, minerality and elegance of the region, it exudes finesse rather than force — a wine for those who appreciate subtlety, purity of varietal and a strong sense of place.
Terroir:
Sourced from the Reiler Mullay‑Hofberg vineyard in the village of Reil on the middle Mosel, the site is composed of steep slopes covered in blue‑grey slate intermixed with quartz and other minerals. The orientation faces the river, aided by reflective light from the water and cool nights that preserve acidity. These conditions produce grapes with concentrated flavour yet lift and precision.
Appearance:
In the glass, the wine shows a luminous pale straw colour with a touch of green rim — indicating youth, freshness and vibrancy. The clarity is excellent, and the lightness of colour suggests finesse over power.
Nose:
The aromas open with fresh green apple and white peach, moving into more refined notes of river stone, crushed slate and a hint of orange blossom or citrus rind. A subtle floral lift and a suggestion of honeyed sweetness (typical of Kabinett style) linger without being overt.
Palate:
On the palate, the wine delivers a fine interplay of fruit and acidity. Flavours of crisp apple, white peach and a touch of pear combine with vivid minerality and a gentle residual sweetness. The acidity is bright and enlivening, keeping the wine lively and balancing the subtle sweetness. Tannins are minimal — this is Riesling of finesse, not grip.
Finish:
The finish is clean, lengthening into slate‑driven minerality and lingering citrus peel. The sweetness subsides gracefully, leaving a dry‑feeling impression and a refreshing aftertaste that invites another sip.
Overall Impression:
This 2023 Kabinett is a textbook example of Mosel Riesling made with care and terroir in mind. It offers purity of fruit, a mineral backbone, and graceful balance — making it both instantly appealing and capable of medium‑term cellar development. A compelling choice for lovers of fine Riesling who value elegance over overt richness.
Food Pairing Suggestions:
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Meat dish: Lightly seared pork loin with apple‑cider glaze or pan‑roasted chicken with thyme and lemon — the wine’s acidity and subtle sweetness complement the savoury‑sweet interplay.
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Vegetarian option: Green asparagus with lemon vinaigrette and shaved Parmesan or grilled zucchini ribbons with fresh mint and pea tendrils — fresh green flavours mirror the wine’s lift and crispness.
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Cheese pairing: Young mild goat’s cheese (chèvre) or a delicate Camembert — the wine’s bright acidity and mineral frame support creamy texture and mild savoury notes.
Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): ~8.5%
Farming Practices: Biodynamic / ecologically farmed (Weingut Melsheimer certified)
Producer Name: Weingut Melsheimer
Old World / New World: Old World
Country of Origin: Germany
Region: Reil, Mosel
Grape Varietals: Riesling (100%)
Vintage: 2023
Wine Style: Dry‑to‑off‑dry white; elegant, mineral‑driven and poised with light body.
Winemaking Techniques: Hand‑harvested grapes from steep slate slopes; minimal intervention; gentle pressing; fermentation retains lift; bottled relatively young to preserve freshness.
Pack Size: 750 ml
Container Style: Standard glass bottle
Closure Style: Cork