2016 Ernst Bretz Riesling Kabinett

100% estate and sustainably grown Riesling on clay and loess soils in the village of Bechtolsheim. Native yeast fermentation. Kabinett (literal meaning: cabinet), or sometimes Kabinettwein (literal meaning: a wine set aside in a cabinet), is a German language wine term for a wine which is made from fully ripened grapes of the main harvest, typically picked in September, and are usually made in a light style. In the German wine classification system, Kabinett is the lowest level of Prädikatswein, lower in ripeness than Spätlese.

Pours a honey yellow color and shows off an aromatic nose of green apple, peach, lime, honey and white flowers. Medium-sweet, just a bit more than off-dry, and starting to develop some fun flavors and textural complexity from the extended time in bottle. Still very fresh and easy to drink.  Great pairing for Thai food.

The village of Bechtolsheim is situated in the heart of Rheinhessen, at the foot of the Petersberg hill, a landmark offering a superb view across the wine-growing countryside. The Bretz family has been producing wine since 1721, now in its 10th generation, with 27-year old Victoria Bretz now running the show. The wine estate itself dates back to the 17th Century when it belonged to the Welchnonnen Convent (nunnery) of Mainz. An old stone relief was found in the courtyard relating to the Convent. The wine-making tradition is today continued by the two sons, Horst & Harald Bretz. Around 70 acres of vines are cultivated, with most of the vineyards on the slopes of Petersberg from where one can enjoy magnificent views of the Taunus or Donnersberg. The vines are planted in multiple small plots that create a unique microclimate that make the region suitable for the growth and cultivation of grapes. The main varieties include Riesling, Spätburgunder, Grauer Burgunder, Weißer Burgunder, Sauvignon blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay. The workers manually pick the best grapes and use them to make their famous red, white, rose, sparkling, and dessert wines. Fermentation in steel tanks with ageing in wood barrels gives the wines an intense flavor and taste that is typical of the gifted Rheinhessen terrain.