Wittmann Morstein Riesling GG 2021
The grand cru Morstein site is situated on the south-facing slope that stretches from Gundersheim to Westhofen. The subsoil consists of massive limestone rocks. The first documented mention of the site dates from 1282.
Today, Wittmann owns about 4 ha (10 acres) in the best (south-east exposure) parcel of this vineyard. The upper layer of soil is primarily heavy clayish marl interspersed with limestone. The subsoil is also heavy and marked by layers of limestone that help circulate water. This ensures that the vines are well supplied with nutrients and minerals, and may account for the mineral character of the Morstein wines.
'As deep and dense as it is subtle and mysterious, this very youthful 2021 GG is like a great ocean liner just setting off on a journey across the North Atlantic. And under the keel lie several thousand meters of dark water. Astonishing textural complexity and a very compact core. Enormously layered finish that has all the spice and wild herb aromas we expect from this great site. From biodynamically grown grapes with Respekt certification. Vegan. Drink or hold.' 98 points. Stuart Pigott, JamesSuckling.com
'The 2021 Morstein Riesling GG offers a deep and intense yet pure, nuanced, fresh and highly complex bouquet of crushed limestone, even chalk intertwined with bright, lemon fruit aromas. This bouquet is nothing less than spectacular in all its purity, subtle intensity and depth. The palate is silky, pure and saline, beautifully fine and fresh, very elegant and long yet still discreet and reduced in its expression. However, this is a chalky and lemony Mortsein from a cool year that will gain texture and complexity with bottle age. This will turn out to be a classic, and I can only recommend to buy more than you might think to buy based on the conservative score.' 96 Points. Stephan Reinhardt, Wine Advocate
Limestone = power and intensity. Amazing. A coiled spring. So dry and saline. The top wine at our GG lunch at Mu Mu September 2023