"German Job"
Riesling 2023
Meinert Wines, under the watchful eye of Brendan Butler, produce a unique and personalized range of wines, the German Job Riesling fitting this brief to a tee.
Made under our Family Collection range, this small batch bottling is an expressive and vibrant Riesling, the inspiration of which is drawn from the classics of the Old World – Germany, in particular Mosel and Rheingau. Its name, ‘German Job’
Riesling, emphasizes that it is indeed Riesling of German origin (Weisser or Rhine) and not Cape Riesling (Crouchen Blanc), which is otherwise rather neutral and vinous and typically used in brandy production. Our first vintage, the 2012, found many converts and followers, and encouraged me to meet the challenge of this expressive yet tricky grape. And the excitement continues with each vintage.
100% Riesling from Elgin
Alcohol 12.68 vol%
Residual sugar 10.1 g/l
Total acidity 6.9 g/l
pH 3.18
The grapes were hand-harvested on the morning of 21 February 2023 and transported to Devon Valley under refrigerated conditions prior to processing. Bunches were whole-bunch pressed, this being a more oxidative process where very limited oxygen uptake during pressing refines the angular elements of Riesling expressed the palate.
Thereafter we go full reductive vinification, where all oxygen is excluded from the must through copious additions of dry ice. Once settled, the must is fermented in tank with natural/endemic yeasts ensuring the purest expression of our terroir. Fermentation lasted 7-weeks eventually stopping of its own accord with a residual sugar of 10g/L, this ensuring perfect palate balance. Only 3199 bottles made.
Bright and expressive aromatics leap forth from the glass rendering you weak in the knees. Mineral, flinty notes give way to complex floral, citrus and stone fruit flavours supported by a vibrant palate and a touch of residual sugar creating even more enticement.
The German Job Riesling is a compelling and versatile wine that can be savoured on its own or as an accompaniment to any meal. Riesling is incredibly versatile as far food pairings, and personally, is best enjoyed with crispy pork belly, spicy curries or even your favourite ribeye steak.
