Heinrichshof Sonnenuhr Rotlay Dry Riesling 2020

Rotlay is a parcel of vines within the larger Sonnenuhr vineyard, vinified separately for this bottling thanks to the unusual beauty and complexity of its wines. The Sonnenuhr (‘sundial’) vineyard itself is one of the most celebrated in the Mosel, and this precipitously steep part of it yields a wonderful example of the vineyard’s style in this cool corner of the Mosel: light but intensely flavored.

2020 was a warm vintage (the last in a trio of warm years) but with cooler weather at harvest. This ensured freshness and balance in the wines, which are remarkably easy to drink while maintaining all the tension and elegance typical of Mosel Riesling. The Rotlay in 2020 showcases the cool, understated style of Heinrichshof’s wines: delicate hints of spice, flowers and slatey mineral seduce rather than overwhelm the drinker. Additional complexity of flavor may be expected when aged for 4-5 years after the vintage.