From: Nahe, Germany
Varietal: Riesling
Taste: On the nose are vibrant petrol, lime, grapefruit, and mirabelle plum notes over a stony undertone. The palate is a delicate balance of minerality and finesse, underscored by a fine acid structure that gives way to flavors of citrus, white peach, and hints of lemon mousse, ending in a lilting, rocky mineral finish.
Pairing: For an ideal pairing, consider serving this Riesling with lighter fare, such as fresh seafood, particularly shellfish, or a classic German dish like Wiener Schnitzel. Its bright acidity and friendly profile make it a delightful companion to Asian cuisines, balancing the spices and flavors of Thai, Japanese, or Vietnamese dishes. Some specific pairing options include matching this wine with calamari (check out the recipe below), sea scallops in browned butter, roasted fish with scallions and ginger, croquettes (korokke in Japanese), karaage or katsu with pickled cucumbers, Thai curry with silken tofu, Thai-styled clams in coconut broth, pork meatballs with ginger and fish sauce, fresh spring rolls, and glass noodles with crab.
Spicy Thai Squid With Chiles and Cilantro
By Melissa Clark
About: Weingut Hexamer is in the valleys of Meddersheim, Germany, where vineyards stretch across the landscape within the esteemed Nahe region. This Riesling is a product of the unique terroir of the Meddersheimer Rheingrafenberg - Here, the vineyards are characterized by Oberrotliegendes – a coarse, red sandstone interspersed with quartzite gravels and sands. This composition and the significant temperature variations between day and night create an environment where Riesling grapes thrive, yielding wines of exceptional balance, fruitiness, and minerality.
The Hexamer family, led by the dedicated Harald Hexamer, has long been committed to crafting wines that reflect the distinct characteristics of their vineyards. With 7.5 hectares in the Meddersheimer Rheingrafenberg and an additional notable presence in the Schlossböckelheimer In den Felsen, their approach is meticulous and deeply rooted in the land's heritage. Controlled yields and a commitment to hand-harvesting characterize the family's efforts in the vineyards. This attention to detail is carried into the cellar, where traditional techniques meet modern sensibilities. The wines are fermented at low temperatures, with cooling used sparingly and only when necessary. Harald’s philosophy of minimal intervention extends to eschewing dosage and relying solely on native yeasts for fermentation. Most of their Rieslings are crafted in stainless steel, preserving their natural vigor and clarity.