Ansgar Clüsserath Vom Schiefer Riesling Trocken 2023

Vom Schiefer Riesling Trocken is a dry Mosel Riesling from Weingut Ansgar Clüsserath, the historic family estate now run by Eva Clüsserath at Trittenheim in Germany. The name translates as from the slate, and the wine's character comes directly from the region's Devonian blue slate soils on steep riverside slopes. These dark stones retain warmth and force the vines to root deep, drawing a distinct stony minerality into the fruit. The Mosel's cool, northerly climate and long growing season give slow, even ripening, which preserves the racy acidity that defines these wines and holds the alcohol at a modest 10.5 per cent. Farming is organic, and after a gentle pressing the wine is fermented dry and rests six months in traditional wood casks, which round the texture without adding oak flavour. The result is pale and bright, with lemon, green apple and white peach on the nose over a smoky, flinty note from the slate. The palate is dry, precise and light on its feet, with vivid acidity and a long saline finish. Serve well chilled at 8 to 10 degrees. It is a fine match for fresh fish and shellfish and for lighter poultry dishes.