# Saar Riesling (2023)

- **Producer:** Van Volxem
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Riesling
- **Region:** Mosel, Germany
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.0%
- **Average price:** €20
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** grapefruit, wet stones, lemon, apple, peach, bread dough, biscuit, ginger, petrol (gasoline)

## About this wine

The Van Volxem Saar Riesling is a dry white wine from Germany's Mosel region, specifically the Saar sub-region. Produced by Weingut Van Volxem, it is made from 100% Riesling grapes. The estate has a long history, with Roman Niewodniczanski leading a significant revival since 2000. The grapes are sourced from steep slate slopes in the Saar, with vines averaging over 30 years old. The soils are predominantly Devonian slate with volcanic components. The winery practices organic farming and hand-picks grapes at a late harvest. This wine is recognized for its distinct minerality and elegant acidity, characteristic of the Saar terroir.

## Interesting facts

- Vineyards average over 30 years old.
- Soils are a mix of slate, rhyolite, and quartz porphyry.
- Grapes are hand-picked at late harvest.
- Winery practices organic farming.

## Food pairing

The wine's vibrant acidity cuts through the richness of seafood and creamy sauces, while its minerality complements the subtle flavors of fish and vegetables. The crispness also balances the sweetness in Asian-inspired dishes.

## Wine making process

The Van Volxem Saar Riesling is produced using 100% Riesling grapes. Fermentation takes place with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel tanks and occasionally oak barrels. The wine undergoes a period of maturation on its lees for several months, ranging from 4 to 7 months. Malolactic fermentation is intentionally avoided. Bottling is performed without clarification, preserving the wine's natural character. The grapes are sourced from vineyards with an average vine age of over 30 years, planted on steep slate slopes.