HOCHHEIMER STIELWEG
RIESLING 2023
RHEINGAU • VDP.ERSTE LAGE • GERMANY
"The aristocracy of Riesling: a wine of surgical precision, where the character of centuries-old vines blends with the vibrant freshness of the Rheingau."
The Legacy of Stielweg Terroir
Hochheimer Stielweg Riesling 2023 is a monument to **Germany**'s viticulture. Located in the prestigious **Rheingau** region, the Stielweg vineyard is famous for its deep loess and marl soils that impart an unusual power to the 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 notes of mango, intertwined with a distinctive 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. Riesling Architecture
4. Imperial Pairing and Service
Gastronomy: A Riesling of this stature pairs sublimely with fine dining: lobster with citrus butter, poultry in creamy sauces, high-level spicy Asian cuisine (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 slightly warms.
Technical Sheet and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What differentiates 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, during which it will develop the complex notes of "petrol" and honey characteristic of great aged Rieslings.