Region — Germany
German Riesling
Riesling is Germany's great white, and the Mosel is its heartland. On steep slate slopes above the river the grape gives wines of remarkable precision — low in alcohol, high in acidity, and able to age for decades.
From off-dry Kabinett to richer Spätlese, these are wines that balance sweetness and acidity rather than relying on either.
What to look for
- —The Prädikat on the label (Kabinett, Spätlese, Auslese) indicates ripeness at harvest, rising in richness — not necessarily sweetness, which is always balanced by acidity.
- —Mosel Riesling is typically light in body and low in alcohol, with citrus, orchard fruit and a wet-stone minerality.
- —Single vineyards such as the Scharzhofberg are markers of the finest sites.
Vintage notes
- 2012
- A balanced, classic Mosel vintage with fine acidity.
- 2005
- A ripe, concentrated year now showing lovely development.
In the cellar now
View all wines
Egon Muller - Riesling Scharzhofberg Spatlese
2005
€ 198
Egon Müller - Scharzhofberger Riesling Kabinett
2012
€ 135
Producers in this region
Frequently asked questions
Is German Riesling sweet?
Not always. Styles run from bone-dry (trocken) to lusciously sweet. Even off-dry wines like Kabinett and Spätlese taste balanced rather than sugary, thanks to Riesling's high acidity.
What do Kabinett and Spätlese mean?
They are ripeness levels (Prädikat) at harvest. Kabinett is the lightest and most delicate; Spätlese ('late harvest') is riper and a touch richer. Both can be off-dry.
How long does Mosel Riesling age?
Remarkably well. Its acidity keeps it fresh for 10–20 years or more, with the wine gaining honeyed, petrol-tinged complexity over time.