2019 Weingut Schätzel Ölberg Riesling Grosses Gewächs

It wasn't until 2008 that Kai took over the neglected wine estate from his parents. Completely self-taught, he threw himself into winemaking. And not without result. Now a VDP member, the biggest climber ever in the Gault Millau and all wines have already been sold before they are made. Kai works completely biodynamically, which means that although the yield has shrunk in volume, the grapes have acquired so much more concentration, taste and body. All grapes are tamped with foot/ rubber boots and skin soaking is standard. Spontaneous fermentation takes place in a natural way (own yeasts) and the wines are raised in large old casks. Befriended with Keller and Egon Müller and with the famous Roter Hang in Rheinhessen and of course the Kabinett style wines. He makes GG wines with 10% alcohol, but that is not allowed so they are around 11-11.5%. His Kabinett can have 5% alcohol, but that is also not allowed so they have around 7-7.5% alcohol. These wines take time and have great aging potential.

Fuchs is a small vineyard in the Große Lage Hipping. The only difference is that Kai Schätzel does not bottle dry Riesling here, but a natural one. The iron-rich clay slate on the Roter Hang usually allows for wild, playful Rielsing types. The whole grapes are crushed by feet and then undergo a week of maceration under dry ice. The wine is then spontaneously fermented in barrels and no sulfur is added throughout the process.

The Fuchs Riesling is Slightly cloudy lemon yellow with delicate orange reflections. The nose is lively with typical Riesling reduction and yeast. It is supported by a fine spiciness. Chervil, lemon balm and sage make for a special Riesling. Acacia blossom, daisies and chamomile make it floral and feminine. White pepper and coriander seeds provide a breeze off the spice rack. Fresh ginger, a little lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves make for a trip to the Far East. Palate On the palate, slim and tight with a good finish. Cool, juicy and spicy. Fuchs has real grip and extract in the mouth. The nutty aromas in the aftertaste are also very pleasant.