Riesling, 2017. Lafken

Lafken is one of the many outstanding wines made by the powerhouse Chilean producer, Besoain. Miguel Besoain's experience making wine in France and Germany is as fascinating as it is exciting. He literally took the theories and practices unique to both countries as well as the grapes.

In Germany he learned the importance of expressing the soil and climate, known as terroir, in the wine. There is no other grape that speaks to its terroir like Riesling. It is literally a conduit to the soil in which it is grown and it makes that statement in the wine. Our selection is no exception.

Riesling, along with Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon, are referred to as a "noble" grape. It's no secret that grapes, like roses, tend to overproduce, which lessens the branches ability to bring the needed nutrients. These four grapes have a natural tendency, unlike any others, to not overproduce. This is a quality referred to as noble. Miguel realized this when he decided to plant Riesling in a very rare spot. It had similarities to vineyards in Germany, an occurrence almost unheard of. It is obvious from this selection that Miguel picked the right spot.

Germany has proven beyond a doubt that Riesling is one of the greatest grapes in the world. Its flavor and character is unmatched. Miguel has succeeded in bringing that character out even when grown far from home. The peach nectar along with the pear and apple is a calling for sauteed scallops in garlic and butter. Perfect!

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