Riesling Marienburg Spätlese VDP Grosse Lage 2023

Wine Description for Riesling Marienburg Spätlese VDP Grosse Lage 2023 by Clemens Busch

Colour & Appearance

Pale, sparkling golden yellow with vibrant green reflections – a youthful wine that reveals its freshness immediately in the glass.

Nose

Still closed and reserved, as befits a young Mosel Riesling of this category. Initially dominated by green apple and sweet citrus zest, followed by riper notes of peach, firm pineapple and mango. Beneath lies a cool, delicately smoky minerality – the signature of grey Devonian slate. White flowers round out the aromatic profile. A wine that asks for patience and promises great things.

Palate

Here Clemens Busch’s mastery shines through: the pronounced sweetness (at just 7.5% alcohol) is perfectly balanced by a brilliant acidity structure. Fresh, invigorating, multifaceted – a dance between opulence and elegance. The slate minerality gives the wine backbone and tension, preventing any heaviness. A classic Mosel Riesling that doesn’t hide its sweetness but celebrates it.

Finish

Long, cool and mineral-driven with a lingering echo of citrus and stone. The acidity remains present and leaves a refreshing, almost saline impression.

Terroir & Origin

The Pündericher Marienburg is one of the great vineyard sites of the Mosel. South to south-westerly facing steep slopes guarantee optimal sun exposure, whilst the weathered grey Devonian slate provides the characteristic cool minerality. Vines over 30 years old with deep roots withstand even periods of drought.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Riesling in pure form. Fully ripe, partly botrytised grapes are selected and spontaneously fermented in traditional Fuder cask. At 7.5% alcohol the wine is chilled and separated from the yeast – classic Mosel craftsmanship without frills.

Food Pairing Recommendations

Ideal with Asian cuisine featuring sweet-spicy elements, Thai curry, pan-fried salmon with teriyaki glaze, duck breast with orange sauce or blue cheese. Also a pleasure enjoyed solo as a meditation wine.

Special Features

VDP Grosse Lage – the highest quality classification in German viticulture. A wine with enormous ageing potential of 15-20 years. Those drinking now should decant generously. Those who wait will be rewarded.