Wachau Riesling Smaragd Ried Achleiten

Riesling of single vineyard Achleiten is characterized by reduced yields due to the shallow topsoil. It is very aromatic, juicy stone fruit aromas, such as apricot and a touch of vineyard peach. The gneiss soil of the Achleiten leads to a classy firm acidity. Charming in its youth, after 3-5 years at the first peak, the Riesling can mature for 15 years or more.

2020

Decanter 93: The Riesling fruit comes through strongly, with intense citrus aromas, and an assertive attack that's very dry. It's not a fleshy style, but it has extract and minerality. It's not very expressive now, so needs time. There's tension and persistence but at present it's austere.

Falstaff 93-95: Light greenish yellow, silver reflections. Fresh tropical fruit notes on the nose, delicate passion fruit and mango, mineral and citrussy with a hint of orange zest. Juicy, fine white fruit on the palate, subtle blossom honey, fresh acidity, appears light-footed, long and slightly salty on the finish. Very good ageing potential.

2022

Wine Advocate 93: The Weissenkirchen 2022 Ried Achleiten Riesling Smaragd is very dense and aromatic in its fruit, reminiscent of ripe and cooked apricots and peach. It is pure, fresh, elegant and juicy on the palate, with a very salty and grippy finish. This is a classic Wachau Riesling from one of the region's finest vineyards. Tasted at Schloss Dürnstein, Wachau, in September 2023.

Vinous 95: The 2022 Riesling Achleiten Smaragd opens with subtle smoke infused with lemon and crushed citrus foliage. The palate is streamlined, showing brightness, linear energy and sheer life force. Concentrated, driven and bold, like a genie in a bottle, this rises upward, at the same time driving deep into stone with its insistent citrus force.

Falstaff 94-96: Light greenish yellow, silver reflections. Delicate spiciness, dark minerality, notes of yellow stone fruit, a hint of candied orange zest, classic terroir bouquet. Finely-meshed, delicate peach fruit, lively acidity, saline nuances, fresh and well lasting, certain ageing potential.