The Losen-Bockstanz estate, situated in the town of Wittlich has been producing wines in the Mosel since the 16th Century. They own vineyards in Wittlicher Klosterweg, ?rziger Wurzgarten, and Wehlener Klosterberg, all considered prime locations. The estate remains a family owned operation managed by the vibrant young winemaker Thomas Losen. He takes great pride in using the most modern cellar techniques to achieve fine and elegant wines.
The wines produced in the location of Wittlich show the distinctive character of the soil, partly loam and partly red sand-stone as compared to the slate soils at Urzig and other spots in the Mosel. While the focus of production is Riesling, Thomas also releases delicious Kerner and superb Spatburgunder (Pinot Noir).
The origins of viticulture in Germany can be traced back to the Romans, at the first century. The earliest vineyards existed at the left bank of the Rhine and plantings spread to the Mosel probably around the 3rd century. The vine advanced further in the Middle Ages, mainly through the church, its monasteries in particular. In the Rheingau, Benedictines founded an abbey which later became the Schloss Johannisberg. Kloster Eberbach was established by Cistercians in 1135.
The planting of vines reached a high point in the 15th century when the area under vine was four times larger than it is today. This included Alsace, which was the most highly esteemed region during that period. The most important early variety was probably Elbling. Silvaner, Muskat, Traminer, Spatburgunder and Trollinger were also known. Riesling arrived relatively late and is first reliably documented in the Rheingau in 1435 and in the Mosel not much later.
Our selection comes from the vineyards around the Mosel River and its two most renowned tributaries, the Saar and Ruwer. These wines are primarily made from the Riesling grape and are arguably the finest in Germany.
This Riesling is a classic German offering, which also means there are few equals in the world. The grape is a conduit to the soil. It reflects the properties in the soil more than any other and the diversity of soils along the Mosel is perfect for it. Here you experience classic peach and apricot flavors along with the slate and chalk of the soil.