Riesling No. 12 Unterstenberg VDP. Grand Cru

The Riesling N° 12 Unterstenberg comes from the VDP.Große Lage Ayler Kupp on the Saar — one of Germany's classic slate sites, which gives Riesling an unmistakable minerality. The abbreviation N° 12 refers to a specific barrel number: Weingut Peter Lauer vinifies its wines parcel by parcel from individual plots of the Ayler Kupp and labels each parcel on the bottle.

The family winery has been in operation since 1830, today run by father Peter and son Florian Lauer. All wines are produced through spontaneous fermentation, matured for a long time in Fuder barrels on the fine lees, and are stirred regularly — hence the creamy, juicy texture that characteristically runs through the house's wines. Lauer has been a member of the VDP since 2013.

In the glass, the Unterstenberg shows yellow pome fruit, ripe mirabelle plum, and citrus zest, underpinned by fine slate minerality and earthy nuances. Vinified as semi-dry, it brings a noticeable melt without losing its tension: a lively acidity carries the wine into a long, exciting finish. The vines in some parcels are over 100 years old — you can feel that in the density and concentration.

Serving temperature 10–12 °C. Pairs well with trout with almond butter, zander on a bed of vegetables, or spicy Munster cheese.