Von Winning 2014 “Winnings” Riesling, Pfalz

Von Winning Winery was founded in 1849. Today they produce some of the best dry wines in Germany.

A Chance Purchase

Green Dragon and I recently popped into Zinful, in their new “tasting boutique” location on Louisiana Avenue in downtown Perrysburg. We chatted with owner Joyce Franzblau and I wanted to pick up a bottle as a sign of support.

Normally I spend much time perusing labels, comparing shelves and contemplating before buying a bottle. Since we were on a tight schedule, I paid for what looked like a promising Riesling and we were on our way.

Never Miss A Toledo Wines and Vines Post – Click To Subscribe

Winning Roots in Pfalz

Pfalz, formerly known as Rheinpfalz, accounts for about 25% of Germany’s wine production and trails only Rheinhessen in production. Von Winning uses sustainable practices in the vineyard and a minimalist approach in the cellar – using natural fermentation, omitting fining agents and minimizing the handling of wine, often without filtration.

Von Winning also has the goods to create world-class wines. Vineyards in are located in Ruppertsberg, Deidesheim, and Forst, some of the prized sites in Pfalz.

They sum up their philosophy as “respect for the wine” from the flowering fo the fruit to the finished bottle. Von Winning has not created new winemaking methods, but rather resurrected traditions that serve them very well today.

As Charlie Sheen Would Say, “Winning!”

When Charlie Sheen ran off the rails a couple years ago he said he was “addicted to winning” in addition to a grab bag of crazed jargon. This wine, however, makes me think he might have been on to something.

We opened the Von Winning “Winnings” with no great expectations. A wrinkle brow of disbelief hit me with the first sip. This is really good Riesling.

For about $16, I was expecting a simple, slightly sweet German Riesling. What I got was a beautifully balanced wine that danced between crisp acidity and elegant citrus flavors. A pop of sweetness then resolves into a nice dry finish.

I was surprised to find such great quality at this price. How do I describe the feeling? Take it from Charlie: It rhymes with “winning!”

Rating: 3.5 of 5  Value: 5 of 5