Urban Riesling 2023 | Nik Weis St. Urbans-Hof | Mosel

Wine Identification
The Nik Weis St. Urbans Hof Urban is a white wine from the 2023 vintage. Produced by the renowned Mosel estate of the same name, this cuvée is crafted entirely from Riesling grapes sourced from the village of Mehring.

Origin and Winemaking
Hailing from the Mosel region in Germany, the Urban represents a distinct approach within the St. Urbans-Hof portfolio. While the winery is celebrated for its five Grosse Lage vineyards, this particular wine is classified as a négociant cuvée, utilizing fruit from Mehring rather than their top-tier single-vineyard sites. The terroir here is characterized by blue slate soils, which impart a distinctive mineral structure to the grapes.

The winemaking process begins with a brief skin maceration designed to enhance the aromatic profile of the Riesling. Following this extraction, the must undergoes fermentation entirely in stainless steel tanks. This method preserves the fresh, primary fruit characteristics and crisp acidity typical of the variety. The resulting wine is described as slightly dry, with an alcohol content of 10.5% by volume.

Tasting Profile
As a 100% Riesling expression from blue slate soils, the Urban is expected to exhibit the varietal’s signature precision and minerality. The brief skin contact adds a layer of aromatic complexity without introducing excessive tannin or weight. Being slightly dry, it likely balances fruit sweetness with vibrant acidity, offering a clean and refreshing palate structure typical of modern Mosel Rieslings.

Overall Character
The Urban stands as an accessible entry point into the St. Urbans-Hof range, distinguishing itself through its specific geographic origin in Mehring and its focused winemaking techniques. It offers a transparent expression of blue slate-driven Riesling, emphasizing aroma and freshness over the intensity found in their Grosse Lage wines.