2024 Dr Loosen Bernkasteler Lay Riesling Kabinett, Mosel

The dynamism and herbal freshness of this Kabinett are off the scale. Stunning white peach and crisp apple aromas and flavors, and the delicate touch of creaminess on the light-bodied palate electrify this. Drink or hold. Screw cap.

94 points James Suckling

The Loosen family have tended vineyards along the Mosel for more than 200 years, with Ernst Loosen becoming one of Germany's most influential voices for Riesling and traditional vineyard expression. Through old vines, steep slate slopes and minimal intervention in the cellar, Dr Loosen has helped restore the Mosel to its rightful place among the world's great white wine regions.

Bernkasteler Lay sits on the outskirts of Bernkastel and is one of the region's hidden gems, its blue slate soils and steep south facing slopes producing Rieslings of delicacy, perfume and striking minerality. The Kabinett style allows the vineyard's freshness and elegance to shine, balancing gentle sweetness with racy acidity and remarkable precision.

The colour is a brilliant pale straw with youthful green reflections. Aromas of lime blossom, green apple and white peach leap from the glass alongside hints of jasmine, wet slate and fresh herbs. The palate is vibrant and beautifully poised, layering citrus and orchard fruits over a fine mineral backbone. A touch of sweetness is perfectly offset by mouth watering acidity, carrying the wine through a long, refreshing finish.

Wonderful with spicy Thai dishes, fresh prawns with chilli and lime, sushi, roast pork with crackling or a simple apple tart. Delicious in its youth yet capable of developing beautifully over the next decade and beyond.