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Josef Leitz

Johannes Leitz runs this Rheingau estate, the latest member of the Leitz family to take the helm. He is well qualified to do so, having gained plenty of experience at the Johannishof estate of Hans Hermann Eser, as well as Eltville college. Like many up and coming winemakers Johannes has travelled further afield than to his neighbours' estates, however, and he has friends and contacts in some of the finest regions in France.

The Josef Leitz vineyards include a number in Rüdesheimer, namely Berg Schloßberg, Berg Roseneck, Berg Rotland, Magdalenenkreuz and the Drachenstein vineyard, reputedly named for the fossilised dinosaur prints found nearby. The soil types are typical for the region, dominated by slate although there is quartzite in Drachenstein, with a small quantity of Burgundy varieties planted alongside the Riesling. Some of the winery practices also reflect those in Burgundy, such as prolonged contact with the lees. (20/5/02)

Contact details:
Address: Theodor-Heuss-Strasse 5, 65385 Rüdesheim
Telephone: +33 (0) 6722 48711
Fax: +33 (0) 6722 47658
Internet: www.leitz-wein.de

Josef Leitz - Tasting Notes

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Leitz Rüdesheimer Drachenstein Kabinett 2006: The nose has the aroma of fresh rosemary, along with a sherbetty vibrancy of lime and minerals, all of which give the wine a fresh, vivacious and frankly delicious character. On the palate this vibrancy continues unabated. It carries a little touch of sweetness, but it is the sherbetly, minerally, tingling acidity that dominates the palate, and I love this. It continues into a fine, slightly sappy finish amid lots of flavour and character. This is an excellent value which offers plenty of pleasure, and which would make a truly refreshing palate-reviver if it should become somewhat overfaced by rich foods in the coming weeks. For label images and more see my Wine of the Week write-up. 17/20 (December 2008) AP number: 24 079 008 07

Josef Leitz Rüdesheimer Magdelenenkreuz Riesling Kabinett 1998: A typical bold green tinge to this pale golden wine. The nose has a mineral character, with some richly-edged white fruits, although overall it suggests a very youthful, tightly-wound wine. The palate lives up to this expectation, with lots of acidity. It is full bodied, powerful, although with a hint of pétillance. Towards the finish there are some suggestions of winemaking imprint, and perhaps further complexity to come, with coffee-tinged, oatmeal and spice character. A good, lingering finish. This wine needs more time. 16+/20 (May 2002) AP number: 24 079 010 99