Hermann Ludes, “Thörnicher Ritsch” Riesling Kabinett Feinherb

Hermann Ludes has awed us with their masterful Riesling gems: We’ve offered a ’95 and a ’10, both of which zipped out of our warehouses at breakneck speeds. Today’s 2015 Kabinett feinherb is the final wine we brought over from their cellars—and there’s a reason we saved this inexpensive treasure for last.Not only is nearly dry to the tastebuds, its pulsating with brilliant energy that channels Mosel’s famous slate soils in the mega-blockbuster 2015 vintage. Further, they’ve also managed to capture pedigree by way of a historic vineyard site: During the first half of the 20th century, the “Ritsch” vineyard was among the most celebrated sites in the Mosel Valley. If you wanted the best Riesling had to offer, this hair-raising precipice was undoubtedly part of the discussion, and then...it was all but forgotten. Hermann Ludes, however, never forgot or doubted its importance. Over many years, they continued crafting intense, beautifully composed Rieslings with exceptional aging potential.