From: Nahe, Germany

Varietal: Riesling

The idea here is to make a village wine, basically, though it’s sold and marketed as a Gutswein or Estate bottled basic wine. The Estate wine combines the two major soils that dominate the holdings for the estate, giving the drinker a look into what Dönnhoff is all about. The basic wine is a calling card and thus Cornelius wants to make statement.

The geology of the middle Nahe is notably shaped by its eons-old clay slate formations and rich volcanic soils. The concentration of old Oberhausen vineyards – Kieselberg (slate) and Felsenberg (volcanic), help provide the perfect base for this outstanding Gutsriesling.

Tasting Notes: “Sourced predominantly from Oberhäuser Leistenberg, this bottling as usual features a much more discreet sense of sweetness than do any of the other non-dry Dönnhoff bottlings. Lime, apple and a hint of blueberry incorporate zest, tang, and crunch to enliven the subtly glossy palate, but also generate a satisfying sense of succulence. The infectiously juicy finish features crystalline stony impingements and a mouthwatering lick of salt.” –Vinous, 90 points

“Green apples, pear drops and chamomile are in play here. Lightly off-dry with some softness and a fruity finish, but some pretty acidity crunch.” –James Suckling, 91 points

“This is delicate, with a hint of residual sugar. Its aromas and flavors of apple and flowers should pair it well with sliced roast chicken over a bed of fresh, garden greens. Add an accent of lemon to bring out all of the flavors.” –Wilfred Wong of Wine, 90 points