Becker Landgraf Feinherb Riesling 2016 is a white wine from the Rheinhessen wine region in Germany, a region known for producing high-quality Rieslings. The "Feinherb" label indicates that this wine has a slight residual sugar, making it off-dry, and it strikes a balance between sweetness and crisp acidity, which is characteristic of this style of Riesling.
Tasting Notes:
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Appearance: The wine has a pale straw color with greenish highlights, showcasing its youth and freshness.
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Aroma: On the nose, it offers vibrant, aromatic notes of citrus fruits like lemon, lime, and grapefruit, along with green apple and subtle floral undertones. There are also hints of minerality and a delicate touch of honey or ripe peach, adding to the complexity. The Riesling's characteristic petrol note may also be faintly present, though not overpowering, adding to the wine's aromatic depth.
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Palate: The 2016 vintage presents a harmonious balance of sweetness and acidity. It has a crisp, refreshing acidity that is balanced by a moderate sweetness, making it more approachable than fully dry Rieslings. Flavors of citrus fruits, green apple, and stone fruits like peach and apricot dominate the palate, with a slightly round, honeyed texture that adds to its richness. A subtle mineral note and a slight touch of herbs give the wine a refreshing, clean profile.
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Finish: The finish is fresh and zesty, with lingering citrus and apple flavors. The acidity provides a crisp, mouthwatering quality that invites another sip.
Aging Potential:
While this wine is designed to be enjoyed young to showcase its fresh fruit character, it does have the structure and acidity to age gracefully for a few more years. Over time, it may develop more complex honeyed and petrol notes as it continues to evolve.
Food Pairing:
Becker Landgraf Feinherb Riesling 2016 pairs well with a variety of dishes. Its balance of sweetness and acidity makes it versatile, especially with spicy dishes like Thai or Indian food, where the sweetness can complement the heat and spices. It also pairs well with seafood, especially shellfish, grilled fish, or sushi. Additionally, it goes well with mild cheeses, poultry, and pork dishes, as well as light salads with citrus or vinaigrette dressings.
Overall Style:
Becker Landgraf Feinherb Riesling 2016 is a well-balanced and approachable Riesling, offering the perfect blend of fruitiness and subtle sweetness, with crisp acidity that prevents it from feeling too rich or cloying. Its balance makes it an ideal choice for those who prefer off-dry wines and enjoy a refreshing, food-friendly style of Riesling. This wine is a great representation of the versatility and charm of German Riesling from Rheinhessen.
