Anton Free - Riesling - alcohol free
Photo: Oliver Schwarzwald
Riesling with distinction
The Riesling Free from the winemaker Anton from Herxheim near Landau, I have received a long time ago as a gift from a good friend. Until now, he was waiting in the cellar. To be honest, I have some respect for a new non-alcoholic wine every time. I am still very ambivalent about this category, because the taste can be very disappointing.
Since I started with Highlevelzero almost 3 years ago, the quality of non-alcoholic and 0.0% wines is increasing noticeably. My last visit to Prowein also further convinced me that this category is in its infancy, but developing rapidly. Not least due to brands like Pierre Chavin or Kolonne Null, which are working ceaselessly on the positive image and quality of non-alcoholic wines.
Anton Free Riesling surprised me in a positive way. Certainly also a reason why Frédéric Chouquet-Stringer offers this product in his web store Alkoholfrei vom Winzer. His offer also includes other wines from selected winemakers, which are not to be found everywhere. It's worth taking a look. The Riesling is still available here.
The beautiful packaging of the "Anton Free" reflects directly the passion of the Anton family for first-class wine. The wine's taste is also convincing. Harmonious yellow tones show in the glass. Rieslings can be quite multifaceted and show a multilayered palette of aromas. The character of the grape variety, which thrives on fruity clay soil, was preserved by gentle dealcoholization. There remains a harmless residue of less than 0.5% by volume. Often, this small amount of residue is responsible for a hint of extra depth. And I personally have no problems with it. As often said, a fully ripe banana also has up to 0.6% alcohol. And I eat them without hesitation.
The typical sparkling acidity of Riesling, with its citrus notes dominating in the foreground, combines with slightly exotic flavors that add complexity in the background. In the foreground, it remains acidic and fresh. Mineral hints as well as the apple note often found in Rieslings come through, but are not too dominant.
Anton Free Riesling is definitely a recommendation to Riesling lovers who want to try their hand at mindful drinking and are looking for something off the supermarket shelf. It is for good reason that this wine was awarded bronze in the 2022 Drinks Business Global Low & Now Alcohol Master. Again, grab it quickly now! Then don't serve too cold and feel free to drink over 2-3 days. The wine is evolving.
Cheers Sober Buddies!
