Ernst Loosen’s goal at J.L. Wolf is to make powerful, traditionally crafted Pfalz wines to complement his lighter Dr. Loosen wines from the Mosel. Made in the classic style of the Pfalz, J.L. Wolf Rieslings are drier and more full-bodied than Mosel Rieslings, with higher alcohol and ripe flavors of fruit and stone. In addition to Riesling, the Pfalz region has a long tradition with other grape varieties, allowing Ernst to expand his winemaking palette to include Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Gewürztraminer and Silvaner.

The Pfalz (pronounced “faults”) lies between the Haardt Mountains and the Rhine River, directly north of France’s Alsace region. As in Alsace, the mountains protect the area from cold, wet, Atlantic weather, making it one of the warmer and drier areas of Germany. This climate makes it possible to achieve full ripeness in every vintage — the key to making wines with rich concentration, fine balance and deep character.