Riesling Marienburg Grosse Lage „Raffes“ 2019

Wine Description for Riesling Marienburg Grosse Lage „Raffes“ 2019 by Clemens Busch

Character

Clemens Busch belongs to the absolute elite of the Mosel and embodies like few others the connection between tradition and biodynamic modernity. The Raffes from the Marienburg vineyard site showcases the powerful, mineral-driven side of Mosel Riesling – far removed from light-footed Kabinett wines. With 13% alcohol and subtle residual sweetness, this wine presents itself as a finely dry to dry interpretation that unites substance and elegance. The Marienburg is one of the great historic vineyard sites of the Mosel, and Busch interprets it with uncompromising precision.

Terroir & Origin

The Marienburg near Puenderich ranks among the century-old vineyard sites of the Mosel. The Raffes is a parcel within this amphitheatre of grey and red Devonian slate, which rises steeply above the river. These sparse soils force the vines to develop deep roots and produce wines of extraordinary minerality and tension. The cool Mosel climate is balanced by the south-facing exposure and heat retention of the slate – ideal conditions for physiologically ripe grapes whilst maintaining crisp acidity. Clemens Busch has managed these steep vineyard sites biodynamically for decades, which is reflected in the vibrancy and precision of his wines.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Riesling finds perhaps its most authentic expression on the Mosel. Busch works with old, ungrafted vines and minimalist intervention in the cellar. The wines mature in traditional Fuders, large old wooden casks that give the wine time without dominating it. The 2019 vintage was warm and sunny on the Mosel, which is evident in the ripeness and alcohol content, without the typical Riesling tension being lost. The subtle residual sweetness serves as a bridge between fruit, acidity and minerality.

Food Pairing Recommendations

This powerful Riesling demands correspondingly intense dishes: pan-fried char with herb butter, scallops with root vegetables, calf sweetbreads or mature Comté. It also demonstrates its versatility with Asian cuisine featuring spicy, not overly hot components.