Peter Lauer Feils Riesling 'Fass 13' Grosse Lage GG, Mosel, Germany

The 2023 Peter Lauer Feils Riesling 'Fass 13' Grosse Lage GG from Mosel, Germany, is a grand, expressive dry wine sourced from the ancient, alluvial-rich Saarfeils vineyard. This prime site, shaped by the prehistoric Saar River, rests on a steep gravel peninsula where deeply rooted old vines produce one of the most textured and powerful expressions in Peter Lauer's GG lineup. An intricate mosaic of slate and riverstone soils, combined with Lauer’s natural winemaking philosophy, brings forth a Riesling of tactile depth and invigorating clarity.

Product Details:

• Vineyard: Saarfeils
• Grape Variety: 100% Riesling
• Winemaker/ Owner: Florian Lauer
• Classification: Grosse Lage GG (Grand Cru)
• Fermentation: Native yeasts, spontaneous fermentation
• Aging: Stainless steel and Fuder barrels, extended lees contact
• Alcohol: 12.5% 
• Residual Sugar: Trocken (3–9 g/L)
• Farming Practices: Practicing organic, no pesticides or copper

Sensory Description:

This powerful dry Riesling opens with a striking aromatic profile, fresh herbs, mint, and ethereal floral tones mingle with vibrant citrus and wet slate. The palate is densely textured yet agile, marked by a core of exotic fruit, mineral energy, and saline precision. Hints of lemon balm, jasmine, and smoky crushed stones lend dimension to a long, expressive finish that speaks to the Saar’s cooler microclimate and the unique terroir of the Feils slope.

Awards & Accolades:

• 97 Points – JamesSuckling.com (2024)

Winemaker's Background:

Peter Lauer, led by fifth-generation winemaker Florian Lauer, is one of the Saar’s most revered producers, known for crafting wines of clarity, energy, and terroir expression. Based in the village of Ayl, Lauer farms some of the region’s steepest and most iconic vineyards, including Ayler Kupp, Schonfels, and Saarfeils, by hand and without synthetic inputs. Committed to organic principles (though not formally certified), Florian avoids copper use and champions spontaneous fermentations with native yeasts. Each wine is vinified in its historical barrel (or "Fass") to preserve the natural flora and house character across vintages.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve chilled at 10–12°C. This dry Riesling is superb alongside herb-crusted pork tenderloin, scallops in citrus beurre blanc, or a spring pea risotto. Its mineral drive and herbal complexity also make it a stunning partner for sashimi, goat cheese, or grilled white asparagus with lemon.

This 2023 release from Peter Lauer's Feils vineyard is a triumphant expression of Saar terroir, a wine that balances structure, freshness, and aromatic grace with remarkable finesse. A Grand Cru bottling that invites both contemplation and pleasure, it promises exceptional aging potential and is not to be missed.