Description
Weingut Joh. Jos. Prüm was founded in 1911 and—over the last century—have established themselves as one of the leading producers for Riesling, not only in the Mosel, but globally as well.
Helmed by the third generation, Katerina Prüm continues the family’s tradition of producing a variety of single vineyard Rieslings through a range of sugar levels, following the German Prädikat system. While their holdings are some of the most enviable within the Mosel, their deep understanding of the individuality of each plot is key to the stunning quality they produce. This selected trio perfectly showcases the style of Prüm, highlighting the individuality of the terroirs and how beautifully balanced their wines can be.
The 2018 vintage worked well for the off-dry category, producing wines with a depth of flavour, refined further by top producers. A summer of sunshine has resulted in wines that are more approachable in their youth, with balanced acidity and fruit expression. In Katerina’s own words, “2018 is a vintage that pleases already in this young stage, but will surely refine in the years to come”.
Spätlese (‘late harvest’ in German) is the second tier in the Prädikat classification system—ranked according to sugar level during harvest; wines that fall under Spätlese are typically off-dry or semi-sweet. Even though sugar in wines are not usually a popular choice, Riesling has a great affinity for residual sugar. Its natural high acidity serves as a wonderful counterbalance to the sugar, cutting through it and providing freshness to the wine, while the sugar helps to provide body and texture.
The level of sugar in these wine makes a great accompaniment to a range of both savoury and sweet dishes. Pork pairs perfectly with the wine and its sugars tame heat from spice (often exacerbated with dry wines). Off-dry wines are a match made in heaven for a variety of spicy South-East Asian dishes—often going well with a variety of dishes at once.
German wine classification systems can be tricky, whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just beginning to tell apart a Chardonnay from a Cabernet—but if there’s one thing you can bet on, it’s that JJ Prüm’s wines will always be delicious.
