Massimo Lentsch, the founder and owner of Tenuta di Castellaro, recently concluded a five-day journey in the picturesque Moselle region of Germany. The primary goal of the trip was to delve into the world of Riesling and personally meet some of the most iconic producers in the area.

During those days, due to abundant precipitation, the river's water level reached up to 8.73 meters, causing it to overflow at various points and prompting local authorities to improvise protections in vulnerable areas. Nevertheless, Massimo managed to visit renowned wineries, including Von Hoeven, Markus Molitor, Karthaeuserhof, Dr. Loosen, and Clemens and Johannes Bush. There were, of course, moments of tasting extraordinary wines, characterized by great finesse, complexity, and infinite aging potential. Additionally, there were storytelling sessions about the histories of the various estates, which boast paths spanning numerous generations.

These encounters provided an invaluable opportunity for Massimo to engage with fellow producers on topics such as viticulture, sustainability, landscape, and oenology—subjects that resonate deeply with us here in Lipari. Despite the differences and distance of the Moselle region and its distinct winemaking traditions, the language and fundamental motivations seemed remarkably similar.

In turn, Massimo shared the story of Tenuta di Castellaro and its Mediterranean and volcanic context with some of the most prestigious German wine producers. Perhaps, one day, they will visit him in Sicily, on the islands of Lipari and Mount Etna.

Below are some images from these meetings in the Moselle.