The winemakers at Richter believe that great wine comes from the vineyard, not the cellar. With this in mind they strive for precision in their daily viticultural work. The challenge of cultivating vines on the steep, slate slopes of Mosel is overcome by fastidious handwork, small crop sizes, all-natural fertilizers and sustainable farming practices. Additionally, all harvesting is done by hand. Vinification starts with gentle pressing and slow temperature controlled fermentation in traditional old oak barrels (fuders). This careful, deliberate process preserves the vineyard-grown quality of the grapes, develops the unique character of the single-vineyard cuvees, and to gives Richter wines exceptional longevity. When possible, they utilize natural yeasts and eschew chemical fining agents. Max Ferdinand Richter’s 48 steep acres are spreadout in the Middle Mosel Valley between Erden and Brauneberg. Plantings consist of 95% Riesling and 5% Pinot Blanc grapes. The average age of Richter vines is 40 years.

Winemaking

Max Ferd. Richter Brauneberger Juffer Kabinett is made from Riesling vines planted in the Juffer vineyard, located along the Moselle River on the opposite side of the town of Mülheim. Its soils are characterised by slate, rich in high iron content, which gives earthy aromas to the wines. This vineyard would be classified as Premier Cru in Burgundian terms. Max Ferd. Richter harvests the grapes by hand at the end of September. Fermentation is done in old, large oak barrels (Fuder) from the vineyard’s own yeasts. The end result is a wine with a fantastic acidity that balances the approximately 55 grams of residual sugar.

Tasting notes

This Max Ferd. Richter Kabinett is a born seducer, irresistible to the human race thanks to its blend of pear, apple, floral and smoky aromas and mineral sensations. Intense, with a marked but perfectly balanced acidity. Long and to be repeated every day of the week.Recommended serving temperature: 9° — 10°C

Pairing recommendation

Perfect with lacquered duck, sushi, vegetables and starters.