The 15 hectares of vines owned by the Domaine Clos des Rochers are spread around the best slopes in the Grevenmacher appellation. They are planted exclusively with noble grape varieties, including Auxerrois, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris and Riesling. Severe spring frosts and decimating hail storms throughout the summer often reduce the already low yield targets. The remaining grapes are finally harvested entirely by hand, enabling the best bunches to be selectively picked at the most favorable moment for optimal maturity. The wines are vinified, matured and bottled in a small cellar on the banks of the Moselle.

Hints of edelweiss and wet stones form the core of this bone-dry Riesling's fragrant bouquet. On the palate lemony flavors are accompanied by a suggestion of sun-baked flint folded within rich layers of minerality. The wine's harmonious and linear acidity carries the lingering warmth of grassy tones and a subtle touch of lemon peel all the way out to the exquisite finish. Ideal food pairings with this stellar—yet austere—white are smoked trout, steamed clams, lobster rolls, batter fried cuttle fish or sweetbreads sautéed in butter.

—Donald