# Calles Riesling (2021)

- **Producer:** Weingut Bernhard Mehrlein
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Riesling
- **Region:** Rheingau, Germany
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 11.5%
- **Average price:** €11
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** green apple, gooseberry, pear, lime

## About this wine

The Calles Riesling 2021 is a white wine from the Rheingau region of Germany, produced by Weingut Bernhard Mehrlein. This estate, now in its third generation under Thomas and winemaker Thorsten Mehrlein, dedicates 98% of its production to Riesling. They strive to blend regional traditions with contemporary winemaking, focusing on clarity and freshness. The vineyards benefit from diverse soils, including Taunus quartzite, sand, gravel, and loess deposits, which contribute to the wine's distinctiveness. The 2021 vintage is noted for its youthful, fruity, and fresh character.

## Interesting facts

- 98% of Weingut Bernhard Mehrlein's production is Riesling.
- Vineyards are planted at higher density to naturally limit yields.
- Lower vine training encourages a richer canopy for grape development.
- The estate aims for a perfect price-to-pleasure ratio.

## Food pairing

The wine's high acidity and fresh profile make it an excellent counterpoint to richer dishes, cutting through fat and cleansing the palate. Its fruity notes complement lighter proteins and vegetables, while its minerality can echo subtle flavors in seafood and salads.

## Wine making process

The Calles Riesling 2021 is produced by Weingut Bernhard Mehrlein using grapes from vineyards characterized by Taunus quartzite, sand, gravel, and loess soils. Vineyard management includes planting at higher densities and lower vine training to naturally reduce yields and enhance grape quality. The winemaking process involves fermentation in stainless steel tanks, a technique employed to preserve the wine's freshness and primary fruit character. The winery's philosophy emphasizes a contemporary interpretation of regional traditions, focusing on clarity, succulence, and freshness.