2014 Weingut Carl Loewen, Riesling, Klostergarten, Kabinett, Mosel Germany.
One of the breakout surprises of year has to be this new set of releases by Carl Loewen, these gorgeous 2014 Rieslings are all worthy of attention, especially the old vine Trockens, but I have to say this 2014 Klostergarten Kabinett is my favorite and a wonderful value as well. It was great getting to taste these impressive Rieslings with Christopher Loewen, he is the next generation here and his enthusiasm and passion for the place really make it clear this is a winery to watch, in particular you should really check out these 2014 wines they all show delicacy, detail and extreme elegance. The 2014 Klostergarten Kabinett shines with mineral, bright flavors, finessed acidity and just enough sugar to add a creamy mouth feel without being overtly sweet and the aromatics are a knockout punch, in fact all the 2014’s from Loewen show pretty perfume and are seductive on the nose, white the fruit is tangy, vibrant and pleasing. The white rose petal, white flowers and tropical essences lead to a palate of lime, kiwi, white peach, green melon, Japanese tea, zesty unripe cherry, a hint of honey and spicy shale stoniness. This is really expressive Riesling of quality, it was fermented with native yeasts and was lovingly crafted with grace and style, it finishes with a whisper of fruitiness, and has nice extract, it will drink nicely for years to come and develop even greater complexity and depth, best from 2016 to 2024, though I do like it’s vivid youthful charms!
($21 Est.) 92 Points, grapelive