HOCHHEIMER STIELWEG
RIESLING 2023
RHEINGAU • VDP.ERSTE LAGE • Wine of Germany
"The aristocracy of Riesling: a wine of surgical precision, where the character of centuries-old vines merges with the vibrant freshness of the Rheingau."
The Legacy of the Stielweg Terroir
Hochheimer Stielweg Riesling 2023 is a monument to **German** viticulture. Located in the prestigious **Rheingau** region, the Stielweg vineyard is famous for its deep loess and marl soils that give an unusual power to Riesling. As an **Alte Reben** (old vines) wine, it offers a dense structure and an almost saline minerality that perfectly balances its natural acidity. Under the strict regulations of the **VDP**, this *Erste Lage* represents the best of a 2023 vintage marked by pure fruit and extraordinary aging potential.
1. Identity Profile
Specific Origin: Hochheimer Stielweg, Rheingau, Germany.
Classification: VDP.Erste Lage (Premier Cru).
Vintage: 2023.
Varietal: 100% Old Vine Riesling.
Aging: Slow vinification with minimal intervention to preserve the character of the site.
Volume: 750 ml.
2. Sommelier's Notes
Appearance: Intense straw yellow with golden reflections, indicating concentration.
Nose: Complex bouquet of white peach, ripe green apple and exotic mango notes, intertwined with a distinct hint of smoky slate and fresh herbs.
Palate: Powerful and juicy entry. The acidity is sharp and elegant, guiding a full-bodied structure. The finish is long, mineral and deeply refreshing with a saline touch.
3. Architecture of Riesling
4. Imperial Pairing and Service
Cuisine: A Riesling of this stature pairs sublimely with fine dining: lobster with citrus butter, poultry in creamy sauces, high-end spiced Asian food (such as Peking duck), and aged hard cheeses.
Service: Enjoy at a temperature between **9°C and 11°C**. Its complexity allows it to evolve fascinatingly in the glass as it warms up slightly.
Technical Sheet and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What distinguishes Hochheim from the rest of the Rheingau?
Unlike most of the Rheingau which borders the Rhine to the north, Hochheim is located near the Main River. Its soils are heavier and more fertile, producing Rieslings with more body, weight, and power than those from neighboring regions.
Is this a dry wine?
Yes, the Erste Lage classification is usually vinified in a dry (Trocken) style to highlight the purity of the vineyard, although it maintains such rich fruitiness that it feels incredibly balanced.
How long can I store it?
Thanks to the *Alte Reben* and its acidity, this wine has an aging potential of 10 to 15 years, where it will develop the complex "petrol" and honey notes characteristic of great aged Rieslings.
