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J.B. Becker Riesling Rheingau Eltviller Sonnenberg Spatlese 2021

$37.99
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J.B. Becker’s 2021 Riesling Spätlese from Eltviller Sonnenberg in the Rheingau is crafted from old vines planted on steep slate soils. The estate farms sustainably and hand-harvests with careful selection. Fermentation is with native yeasts and aging in stainless steel preserves freshness and balance.

This Spätlese shows ripe stone fruit, citrus blossom, and mineral undertones balanced by lively acidity and a hint of sweetness. A refined, elegant wine with classic Rheingau precision and length.

This has been one Germany’s most unrepentantly unique producers for half a century, though the estate itself was founded in 1893.

The big change began when Hans-Josef Becker took over the family estate 50 years ago and abruptly switched tack. Rather than continue to focus on the unctuous, sweet Rieslings the region was known for, Hans-Josef shifted production towards mercilessly dry, razor-sharp dry Rieslings that required years – sometimes decades – of cellaring to mellow out.

Such a radical move obviously comes with consequences. When his current importer asked what happened when he first made the switch in 1971, Becker replied “I lost all my customers.”

But Becker, who farms organically and ferments with indigenous yeast, kept going, and it seems like the world has finally caught up to his vision.

Dry German Rieslings are much more popular now, even in traditional bastions of sweet wine production like the Rheingau.

That said, Becker’s wines are still unique even in today’s more understanding world, and can even be a little shocking sometimes. This is especially true of the aged wines, which can be briny, spicy, and more than a little cerebral.

Details

  • Grape Variety

    Riesling

  • Vintage

    2021

  • Size

    750ml

  • Farming Practice

    Organic

  • Style

    Elegant , Fruity , Minerally

  • Sweetness

    Off-Dry

  • Body

    Full Bodied