Boise Coop Wine Shop

Mostly German

• July 21, 2010

Dr. Loosen is a name synonymous with Riesling, but they have more than that under their winemaking umbrella. Check out this quartet to get an idea of the diversity of their portfolio.

2008 Villa Wolf Pinot Gris, $11.99
The Villa Wolf label is used for a value-priced line of varietal wines that combine J.L. Wolf estate-grown fruit with grapes from contracted growers. These are exceptionally affordable, classic Pfalz wines from traditional varieties. Pinot Gris has a very long tradition in the Pfalz region. In fact, it was here that the variety was first identified. Villa Wolf Pinot Gris is made in a full-bodied, dry style with refreshing, unoaked fruit and a crackling texture.
2008 Dr Loosen Riesling, “Dr. L,” QBA, $11.99
Dr. L comes exclusively from traditional vineyards with steep slopes and slate soil. This introductory, non-estate wine embodies the elegant and racy style of classic Mosel Riesling. By working closely with growers on long-term contract, brothers Ernst and Thomas Loosen are able to assure excellent quality in every vintage. Ranked #62 on the Wine Spectator Top 100 for 2009.
2008 Dr. Loosen Riesling Kabinett Estate, “Blue Slate,” $19.50
Kabinett is the lightest and most delicate style of Riesling in Germany. It is produced from the earliest picking in the best vineyard sites. This estate grown Dr. Loosen Riesling Kabinett embodies the racy, mineral-driven style of steep, blue slate vineyards in the famous middle Mosel villages of Bernkastel, Graach and Wehlen. Dr. Loosen Rieslings from these villages are some of the most elegant white wines in the world, with fine density and subtle power. Clean, crisp, distinctive Riesling Kabinett from Ernst Loosen, one of Germany’s most celebrated winemakers. An elegant aperitif wine, this is also an excellent partner for seafood, spicy Asian cuisine and lighter dishes that emphasize fresh ingredients.
2008 Dr. Loosen Riesling Spätlese Ürziger Würzgarten, $28.50
Blazing red and insanely steep, the Ürziger Würzgarten (ERTS-ih-ger VERTS-gar-ten) vineyard fills the picturesque amphitheater formed by this dramatic bend in the river. Although it’s directly adjacent to the vineyards of Erden, it produces a completely different kind of wine, with exotic, spicy aromas and a mesmerizing earthiness. No other vineyard on the Mosel produces wines so bursting with tropical fruit flavors. The estate’s oldest vines are found here.
2008 J. Christopher Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $28.50
A collabrotive effort between Oregonian, Jay Somers and the German Ernst Loosen, J. Christopher Wines is a small winery located in the Northern Willamette Valley. Their wines are hand crafted in small lots and are sourced from some of the best vineyards in Oregon. They specialize in Pinot Noir from the Dundee Hills made in the traditional style of Burgundy. This wine, from the exciting 2008 vintage, presents bright, focused aromas of earth, raspberry and toast, following through with dark fruit and smoky black cherries on the palate, with a sweet, lingering finish. Supported by outstanding structure, the wine leave an overall impression of focus, purity and elegance.