21.07.10 | Chateau Ste. Michelle
Riesling Rendezvous "let it rock"

Leading experts and producers explored the versatility of Rieslings from around the world at Chateau Ste. Michelle in Washington State. The 3-day event was co-starred by Ernst Loosen of Germany's renowned Dr. Loosen estate. Wine Journalist Stuart Pigott as well as Steffen Schindler, Director Marketing of the German Wine Institute, co-moderated the sold out event.

German Vintner Alexander Gysler (left) and Stuart Pigott (right)

German Vintner Alexander Gysler (left) and Stuart Pigott (right)

Winemakers had an unprecedented opportunity from July 11 to 13th 2010 to showcase their wines among the world's great producers, share the alluring nature of Riesling with trade, media and consumers and exchange technical and aesthetic ideas with peers. Trade and consumers learned from and tasted with highly respected international Riesling producers and noted experts at an exceptional event dedicated to celebrating the versatility and attributes of the noble grape.

One of the highlights of the Riesling Rendezvous programme was a tasting called "Let it rock!". It featured the young stars of Germany's Generation Riesling. Sponsored by "Destination Riesling", an EU-programme the German Wine Institute works on. It provided the guest with new insights of today's wine scene in Germany. This unconventionell but effectful presentation got accompanied by sounds of "Kraftwerk" (Autobahn), "The Who" und "David Bowie" (Heroes). A second look into the festivals programme also revealed even more seminars of great interest.

Grand consumer & trade tasting featuring producers pouring Rieslings from around the globe on the lawn at Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery.

Blind tastings guided by distinguished producers to explore Riesling styles, from powerful dry wines of Austria, Alsace and Australia to the elegant German variations and the flavorful, spicy interpretations from North America.
Breakout sessions led by distinguished speakers and producers on topics including:
The Greening of Riesling - explore the latest in sustainable and organic vineyard and winemaking practices associated with Riesling.
Discovering Austrian Riesling - Exploring the powerful, dry styles of Rieslings from Austria. Sponsored by the Austrian Wine Marketing Board.
Ageability of Rieslings - a rare tasting of older Rieslings from top producers.
LET IT ROCK! - A panel tasting featuring the young stars of Germany's Generation Riesling. Sponsored by Destination Riesling.
Winegrowers Only - Two sessions dedicated to a candid exchange of ideas on the challenges of growing and producing Riesling, ranging from climate specific vineyard practices to closures.