BERG SCHLOSSBERG
RIESLING GG 2016
DOMDECHANT WERNER • RÜDESHEIM • RHEINGAU
"The verticality of the Rhine: a Riesling born in ancient slate that defies gravity with aristocratic elegance and eternal freshness."
The Slate Giant of the Rheingau
Rüdesheim Berg Schlossberg Riesling VDP.GG 2016 is one of the purest and most mineral expressions in the world. The Domdechant Werner winery has cultivated this mythical plot where the vines sink into slate and quartzite soils, right above the ruins of Ehrenfels Castle. As a Grosses Gewächs, it represents the highest quality of a dry wine in Germany. The 2016 vintage is noted for its classic elegance, with a vibrant acidity that has evolved into a silky texture and mineral complexity that only time can bestow.
1. Identity Profile
Specific Origin: Berg Schlossberg (Grosse Lage), Rüdesheim, Rheingau.
Winery: Domdechant Werner.
Varietal: 100% Riesling.
Vintage: 2016 (A vintage of great balance and finesse).
Soils: Taunus slate and Quartzite.
Volume: 750 ml.
2. Sommelier's Notes
Appearance: Pale gold with brilliant sparkles. An impeccable visual evolution.
Nose: An extremely vertical profile. Intense notes of white peach, lime zest, and grapefruit, which merge with a saline mineral character and the onset of subtle notes of kerosene, beeswax, and dried flowers.
Palate: The attack is sharp and elegant. It presents a skeletal, almost tactile structure, thanks to the slate. The acidity is perfectly integrated, offering a long, dry, and deeply saline finish. A wine of absolute purity.
3. Architecture of the Berg Schlossberg
4. Pairing and Exceptional Service
Gastronomy: Its mineral structure makes it ideal for oven-baked rockfish, seared scallops with cauliflower purée, high-end Asian cuisine (Sashimi or prawn Dim Sum), or dishes with white truffle. It is exceptional with aged pressed cheeses.
Service: Serve at a temperature between **10°C and 12°C**. Despite its age, 15 minutes of aeration will allow the notes of quartzite and slate to shine with their full intensity.
Technical Sheet and FAQ
What is the difference between the Berg Schlossberg and other Rheingau GGs?
Unlike the vineyards of Hochheim (which are more powerful and broader), the Berg Schlossberg of Rüdesheim is famous for being more vertical, citrusy, and mineral, with a tension reminiscent of a stretched spring.
Why is the 2016 vintage so highly regarded now?
Because it was a vintage of slow and perfect ripening. After 10 years, the wine has lost the aggression of its youthful acidity to gain a complexity of flavor that did not exist upon release.
Is this wine suitable for further aging?
Yes. GG Rieslings of this level and vintage can continue to evolve positively for another 15 to 20 years without losing their characteristic freshness.