Rudi Pichler Achleithen Riesling Smaragd 2023 750ml

#76 of Top 100, 2024. The 2023 Riesling Achleiten Smaragd is still reduced on the nose; underneath is a flicker of citrus, perhaps even of conifer. The palate dances in on light feet, leaving its traces on the stone like a figure skater on ice. The palate is full of zest, somehow alive in its incredible youthfulness, energy and stony power. It is a lovely and gracious monument. Wow. (Bone-dry)

• Country: Austria
• Region: Wachau
• Size: 750ml
• Color: White
• Alcohol by Vol: 13.0%

Varietal

Riesling

Riesling grapes have been grown in and around central Europe for centuries, and over time, they became the lasting symbol of south Germany’s ancient and proud wine culture. Whilst the reputation of German wines abroad has in the past been mixed, the Germans themselves take an enormous amount of pride in their wineries, and Riesling grapes have now spread around the globe, growing anywhere with the correct climate in which they can thrive. Riesling grape varietals generally require much cooler climatic conditions than many other white grapes, and they are generally considered to be a very ‘terroir expressive’ varietal, meaning that the features and characteristics of the terroir they are grown on comes across in the flavors and aromas in the bottle. It is this important feature which has allowed Riesling wines to be elevated into the category of ‘fine’ white wines, as the features of the top quality bottles are generally considered to be highly unique and offer much to interest wine enthusiasts.