There’s a special joy in discovering wines that express where they come from, inviting us to taste not only the fruit but also the soul of a place we may never have seen yet feel connected to through every sip. Each bottle becomes a window into the landscape, climate, and traditions of its region, capturing the essence of its terroir and winemaking heritage.
Here are two I recently tasted and thoroughly enjoyed.
Weingut Keller Vom Muscheligen Kalk 2023
Germany, Rheinhessen
single plot:
Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Sylvaner and Chardonnay planted together
Weingut Keller’s “Vom Muscheligen Kalk” is sourced from the limestone-rich vineyards of the Rheinhessen region in Germany. Known for its mineral depth and vibrant acidity, this wine expresses the terroir’s unique limestone soils, often referred to as “muschelkalk,” meaning “shell limestone.” The grapes, primarily Riesling, are cultivated to showcase purity, with aromas of citrus, white peach, and nuanced floral notes. The result is a wine with balance, acidity, and a minerality that lingers on the palate.
Beautiful aromatics with a medium straw color. The nose offers lovely notes of wet stone, crushed rock, lemon zest, apple, and stone fruit. Similar flavors carry through on the palate, featuring high acidity and a pronounced mineral streak on the finish. It’s nearly bone-dry but has a hint of sweet fruit on the back end. This was my first time trying this wine, and I’ll definitely be stocking up.
$43
Peter Lauer Kupp Kabinett N°8 2023
Germany, Mosel Saar Ruwer
Riesling
Peter Lauer’s Kupp Kabinett N°8 is a remarkable Riesling from Germany’s Saar region, celebrated for its exquisite balance of sweetness and acidity, with the lively acidity beautifully offsetting the wine’s subtle sweetness. Sourced from the renowned Kupp vineyard, this Kabinett reveals delicate aromas of green apple, citrus, and floral notes, accompanied by a distinct minerality that reflects the vineyard’s unique terroir.
Light and elegant on the palate, it offers a fresh sweetness complemented by a refreshing acidity, making it both vibrant and easy to drink. Showcasing the finesse and complexity of German Rieslings, this wine exemplifies the Saar region’s ability to produce nuanced, terroir-driven wines. With Mosel remaining one of the best values in white wine, this bottle stands as a testament to the exceptional quality the region consistently offers.
$32