Domaine Wachau GV Smaragd Ried Achleiten 2018

From the producer Domäne Wachau is one of Austria’s most renowned wineries, based in Austria’s most prestigious wine growing region, the Wachau. Steep terraced vineyards, a cool, marginal climate and meagre primary rock soils define the wines. "Smaragd“ stands for complex, full-bodied wines of the Wachau with ageing potential.

Ried Achleiten Achleiten is a legendary vineyard in the Wachau village of Weissenkirchen. It is famous for wines with inimitable mineral character. Dry stone walls dating back to the 12th century, which mount the steep slopes with their silicate-rich soil, dominate this vineyard’s landscape. In the upper terraces, gneiss is the prevailing subsoil, the lower terraces are dominated by dark, schistous amphibolites.

Tasting Note Light green-yellow with silver reflections; on the nose very aromatic, juicy stone fruit aromas like apricot and subtle hints of white peach and lemon, white pepper and fresh wild herbs; the palate is very juicy and vibrant; the refreshing acidity balances the wine very well; structured and elegant with intense fruit sweetness in the finish; long-lasting and much salty minerality show typical characteristics of Achleiten.

How to enjoy best Riesling Achleiten is counted among the most age-worthy wines of the Wachau. It requires some time to open up but remains fresh and racy even after 10 years. Well chilled at 10°C, the wine perfectly accompanies the sophisticated international cuisine, fish, roasts, pigeon and quail as well as mature cheeses.

“A mesmerizing note of green-apple sorbet, then a chorus of saffron, cloves and nutmeg. Bright and steely on the palate which has just the faintest sweetly soft edges to balance out the racy acidity. Drink now.” - James Suckling, December 2019