IN OUR BAR: 10 Cool Facts About Weingut Dr. Loosen
By: Sommelier Ariana Tsuchiya
“Weingut Dr. Loosen” Dinner on October 17, 2017 at Alan Wong’s Honolulu
One - Once described by journalist Dorothy Gaiter, as the "German Mick Jagger" for his debonair hair.
Two - He is one of the creators behind Chateau Ste. Michelle's marquee Riesling, Eroica. The name Eroica is inspired by Beethoven's Third Symphony.
Three - Ernst Loosen was chosen by his father and grandfather to take over the family estate from among his siblings and other family members.
Four - After deciding to take over the family business, he studied at Geisenheim, Germany’s renowned winemaking school.
Five - Due to inheriting less advanced wine making equipment from his father, he was forced and able to master the art of "minimalist winemaking", particularly, long and very slow fermentations.
Six - Ernst has a special fondness of Pinot Noir and has been producing Pinot in Pflaz since 1996.
Seven - He has a second label with his brother called "Dr. L" which offers great flavor packed wines for an affordable price.
Eight - He received initial criticism for keeping his old vines, some dating to 100 years old. But now claims keeping those vines was one of the best decisions he has made.
Nine - One of his favorite pairings with dry Riesling is South American ceviche.
Ten - His great grandfather appreciated old Rieslings so much that he never touched a wine that wasn't at least 10 years old.
(Photos courtesy of: http://drloosen.com/blog/)