2016 Dr Loosen Urziger Wurzgarten Unterst Pichler Alte Reben Reserve Riesling Grosses Gewachs

Dr Loosen is one of the most respected names in the Mosel, and has been in the same family for over 200 years. Current custodian Ernst Loosen works with some of the finest vineyards in the area, and since 2011 he has pushed the boundaries further in an attempt to better express three unique terroirs. Working with Wehlener Sonnenuhr (blue slate), Urziger Würzgarten (red volcanic soil), and Erdener Pralat (red slate), the Grosses Gewachs Reserve wines hail from the finest parcels of ungrafted vines in each vineyard. Fermentation occurs naturally as with the regular GG wines, however the wines are held on full lees for 24 months, before an additional 24 months in bottle. This additional maturation approach lends greater balance and a deeper degree of vineyard expression to these wines.

Due the rich, red volcanic soils, Urziger Wurzgarten produces wines unlike any other in the region. As the name would suggest, expect an exotic and spice laden Riesling that leans more towards tropical fruit flavours than the neighbouring vineyards.

Other Reviews....
Brimming with red gooseberry and white peach plus notes of fennel, wild thyme and rosemary this is clearly identifiable as a representative of its vintage, but has some notes that are far from typical for 2016. Really concentrated yet sleek and focused with a wild berry intensity that makes the bold finish very exciting. Great aging potential. Drink or hold.
96 points
Stuart Pigott - jamessuckling.com

The 2016er Ürziger Würzgarten Unterst Pichter Reserve Alte Reben, as it is referred to on the main label (the reference to GG is left for the back label), is made from parcels of very old un-grafted vines in the prime Pichter sector and was fermented in oak with ambient yeasts and aged on its gross lees for 24 months before being bottled. This yellow-white colored wine offers a subtly complex nose made of pear, fine spices, some citrusy elements, a hint of petrol, and subtle scents of herbs. At this stage, the smoothness of the wine is coming through on the palate yet the finish is superbly airy, multi-layered, and complex. The aftertaste is all about smoke, spices, and herbs. This wine is clearly still going through its closed phase and is best left alone for another five years or so. But then, it will prove a superbly complex expression of dry Riesling. Drink 2026-2041.
93 points
Jean Fisch & David Rayer - Mosel Fine Wines