Dr. Loosen

Dr. Loosen is an estate known for its old, ungrafted vines and a focus on letting the land and climate highlight the qualities of Riesling.

Their range includes entry-level 'Dr. L' wines, village-level selections, and single-vineyard wines.

Styles vary from bone-dry (trocken) to traditional Pradikat categories like Kabinett, Spatlese, and Auslese, showcasing the grape's natural ripeness.

When Ernst Loosen took charge in the late 1980s, he reformed farming and winemaking practices, implementing strict yield reductions and restoring old vines despite some pushback.

These efforts aimed to enhance the estate's focus on quality and the clear expression of its unique location.

Dr. Loosen’s global appeal stems from its ability to balance elite, collector-level quality with approachable, consumer-friendly education.

• Priceless Old Vines — the use of ungrafted vines from pre-phylloxera eras provides a depth of minerality and complexity that is rare in the modern wine world.
• The "Riesling Revolution" — Ernst Loosen’s tireless work as a global ambassador helped move German wine away from mass-market perceptions toward its rightful place as a noble, cellar-worthy variety.
• Tiered Accessibility — from the iconic, budget-friendly 'Dr. L' gateway label to the complex 'Grosses Gewächs' dry Rieslings, the portfolio offers a point of entry for every level of enthusiast.
• Collaborative Spirit — high-profile projects like 'Riesling Rendezvous' and partnerships with iconic producers like Chateau Ste. Michelle have bridged the gap between Old World tradition and New World innovation.

• Where is the Dr. Loosen winery located?
  Dr. Loosen is headquartered in Bernkastel-Kues in Germany's Mosel Valley, an area famed for its steep, slate-rich vineyards that shape the character of its Rieslings.
• Who runs the Dr. Loosen winery?
  The estate is led by Ernst F. 'Erni' Loosen, who has been at the helm since 1988 and is pivotal to its modern success.
• When was Dr. Loosen established, and by whom?
  The Loosen family founded the winery in the early 19th century, and it has remained a multi-generational, family-run estate for over 200 years.
• What type of wine does Dr. Loosen specialize in?
  Dr. Loosen specializes in Mosel Riesling, producing styles that range from bone-dry (trocken) to classic Prädikat levels such as Kabinett, Spätlese, and Auslese.
• What is 'Dr. L' Riesling?
  'Dr. L' is the estate's approachable, budget-friendly entry to Mosel Riesling, designed to showcase the region's freshness and charm.
• What are the vineyards like?
  The estate farms steep, slate-soil vineyards, including many old, ungrafted vines. This terroir contributes minerality, precision, and longevity to the wines.
• Does Dr. Loosen produce wines outside the Mosel Valley?
  No—Dr. Loosen estate wines come from the Mosel. However, Ernst Loosen also operates Villa Wolf in the Pfalz and co-produces the Eroica Riesling with Chateau Ste. Michelle in Washington State.