What is clean slate wine?

Answered by James Porterfield

Clean Slate is a refreshing and versatile Riesling that originates from the renowned Mosel Valley in Germany. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that Clean Slate is a balanced and well-crafted wine that showcases the best qualities of the Riesling grape.

One of the standout characteristics of Clean Slate wine is its lively acidity. This acidity gives the wine a vibrant and crisp quality that is incredibly refreshing on the palate. It also helps to balance out the natural sweetness of the Riesling grape, resulting in a harmonious and well-rounded flavor profile.

In terms of flavor, Clean Slate wine is known for its notes of ripe peach and citrus fruits. These fruity flavors add a touch of sweetness to the wine, while still maintaining a sense of freshness and brightness. The peach flavors are often described as luscious and juicy, while the citrus notes provide a zesty and tangy element.

What sets Clean Slate wine apart from other Rieslings is its minerality. The Mosel Valley, where this wine is produced, is known for its slate soil, which imparts a distinct mineral character to the grapes. This minerality adds complexity and depth to the wine, making it more interesting and enjoyable to drink.

When it comes to food pairings, Clean Slate wine is incredibly versatile. Its vibrant acidity makes it an excellent choice to pair with a wide range of dishes. The sweetness of the wine pairs well with spicy cuisines, such as Thai or Indian, as it helps to balance out the heat. It also complements rich and creamy dishes, like risotto or buttery seafood, by cutting through the richness and providing a refreshing contrast.

I recall a personal experience where I paired Clean Slate wine with a spicy Thai curry. The wine's acidity and sweetness beautifully balanced the heat of the curry, creating a delightful combination of flavors. The fruity and citrus notes of the wine also enhanced the aromatic spices in the dish, making for a truly memorable dining experience.

Clean Slate wine is a fantastic expression of the Riesling grape from the Mosel Valley in Germany. Its lively acidity, ripe peach and citrus flavors, and distinctive minerality make it a standout wine that is perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of dishes, Clean Slate wine is sure to impress even the most discerning wine lovers.