Egon Müller Scharzhof Le Gallais Wiltinger Braune Kupp Spätlese 2024

Winery Background and History Weingut Egon Müller-Scharzhof is one of Germany’s most revered wine estates, with origins dating back to 1797 when the Müller family acquired historic vineyards in Wiltingen, located in the Saar sub-region of the Mosel. Over generations the estate has built a legendary reputation for producing some of the most expressive and ageworthy Rieslings in the world, blending old-world tradition with meticulous vineyard work. The acquisition of the Le Gallais holdings in 1954 expanded Müller’s access to prime sites like Wiltinger Braune Kupp, reinforcing its status among elite producers. The estate remains a member of Primum Familiae Vini and is celebrated for its singular focus on Riesling. 

Producer and Winemaker The wine is crafted by Egon Müller IV, the current sixth-generation proprietor and winemaker, educated at Geisenheim and deeply committed to traditional methods. Under his stewardship, the estate continues to elevate its Rieslings through precise vineyard selection and conservative intervention in the cellar. Müller’s philosophy emphasizes showcasing terroir character and natural acidity with minimal manipulation, reflecting a deep respect for the Saar’s limestone and slate soils. The estate’s rigorous hand-harvesting and village-wide sourcing from its own holdings ensure the highest quality. 

Vineyards and Micro Climate The Wiltinger Braune Kupp vineyard lies on steep, slate-rich slopes overlooking the Saar River, benefiting from excellent drainage and heat retention. The site’s brown slate soils impart extraordinary minerality and structural depth to the Riesling grapes. The cool continental climate of the Saar, with marked diurnal temperature shifts and a long growing season, allows for extended ripening and natural balance of sugars and acidity. The Braune Kupp site in particular is known for producing wines with rich fruit intensity and vibrant freshness. 

Vinification & Aging Methods This Spätlese is made exclusively from Riesling grapes harvested at peak ripeness with careful daily sorting in the vineyard to ensure concentration and balance. Fermentation is typically conducted in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve purity and aromatic intensity. Aging is carried out on fine lees to build texture and integrate fruit and acidity. There is minimal use of oak, as the intention is to highlight the site’s crystalline minerality and varietal purity over barrel influence. 

Tasting Notes The 2024 Spätlese displays a pale golden-yellow hue. The nose opens with intense aromas of ripe peach, apricot, grapefruit and kumquat, intertwined with delicate floral notes and hints of minerality. On the palate the wine is elegantly balanced, combining sweetness with vibrant acidity, delivering succulent stone fruit, citrus zest, and subtle exotic spice. The finish is long, mineral-driven and refreshing, with a harmonious interplay between fruit and acidity that exemplifies Saar Riesling. 

Food and Wine Pairing Pair this Spätlese with spicy Asian cuisine, foie gras, smoked fish, shellfish with citrus sauces, or rich poultry dishes. It also complements creamy desserts and fruit-based tarts. The wine’s natural sweetness and acidity make it a versatile companion for both savory and sweet courses, enhancing rather than overpowering complex flavors. 

Service Methods and Temperatures Serve chilled at 8–10 °C in a white wine glass to concentrate the delicate aromas and fine acidity. Pour gently to preserve purity and expressiveness. Allow the wine to breathe slightly after pouring so that its aromatic complexity can fully develop. 

Storage and Aging Potential This wine has excellent aging potential due to its high natural acidity and balance of residual sugar, with cellaring potential of 20–45+ years in optimal conditions (cool, stable temperature, moderate humidity, away from light). While delicious when young, the wine will evolve beautifully, gaining layers of complexity and petrol-like tertiary notes with age. 

Grape Varietals & percentage used 100 % Riesling 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume) Approximately 7.5 %–9 % depending on final ferment result in 2024 

Scores

Lobenberg: 96–97/100 (2024) 

Mosel Fine Wines: 95+ (typical for vintage) 

Robert Parker – The Wine Advocate (aggregate for Braune Kupp Spätlese wines): 96