BSA & Barrique – A Radical Approach to Riesling?

Andy Rings now almost entirely relies on BSA for his Rieslings—and increasingly on Barrique, using second and third fill barrels. His philosophy? Let the cellar do its work. “I don’t have an analysis for every wine to confirm if the BSA has fully run its course, but I’d say it’s about 95%,” Andy remarked casually as we sampled the barrels. The secret lies in his method: late sulfur additions, minimal interventions, and letting natural processes unfold.

Then there’s the wood. Instead of large, neutral foudres that only add texture, Rings uses used Barriques—the very barrels that once aged his top Chardonnays. With no dominant roast notes, these barrels impart a subtle oxygen influence and gentle micro-oxidation. Andy approaches his major Rieslings during aging much like a Grand Cru Chardonnay. The wood helps to tame the high extract from the grapes—obtained from minimal yields in the vineyard—and channel that energy correctly.

The Result?
Rieslings with an entirely new dimension. No overwhelming, oaky overkill, no greasy butter bomb—instead, wines with breathtaking balance, structure, and tension, yet unmistakably Riesling through and through.

The 24-barrel samples blew me away. The texture? Creamy, but not greasy. The acidity? Perfectly integrated—present without being sharp. The aromatic profile? Radiant, with deep yellow fruit, a touch of smoke, and delicate spice. And best of all: despite the soft texture and structural influence of the wood, the wine remains juicy, incredibly drinkable, and full of energy.

“This is how I drink and make Riesling.”

I never imagined it would work, but this style does—and it works brilliantly. While many still debate whether Riesling and BSA can be reconciled, Andy Rings has already proven that not only is it possible, but it can give the wines an entirely new dimension.

I recently spoke with Jan Raumland on the phone about this topic, and his answer was clear: it’s exactly his thing. “Climate change is transforming Riesling—using BSA and micro-oxidation in Barrique gives it a style that combines power, structure, and depth. This is how I drink and make Riesling.”

And that sums it up perfectly. Riesling is evolving. There will always be classic, steely-precise wines, but alongside them, new interpretations are emerging—wines with more texture, more substance, more grip. And honestly? I’m completely hooked.