2024 Günther Steinmetz Riesling Mosel Neumagener Rosengärtchen Am Fels

Weingut Günter Steinmetz, one of the most renowned Mosel producers, is located in the heart of the German Mosel region and has been crafting terroir-based wines for generations. It is a family business, run by Stefan Steimetz (5th generation) and his wife Sammie since 1999. Stefan Steinmetz is known for producing wines that reflect the unique characteristics of his historic vineyards and is one of the icons of the Mosel region, a reputation that is further reinforced by the (very) high ratings of his wines from the international wine press.

The grapes for this wine come from the Neumagener Rosengärtchen vineyard, specifically from the "Am Fels" plots. These plots are characterized by unique pink slate soil, a rarity in the Mosel region. The vineyard is planted with old Riesling vines at a high density, similar to traditional methods from a century ago. The steep slopes make mechanization impossible, so all work is carried out by hand. The wine undergoes spontaneous fermentation and matures entirely in stainless steel tanks, without contact with wood. This process preserves the wine's pure fruit expression and distinct minerality.

The Günther Steinmetz Riesling Mosel Neumagener Rosengärtchen Am Fels Riesling offers an explosion of tropical fruit and spicy aromas. Despite its enormous concentration and smoky intensity on the medium-bodied palate, the wine remains exceptionally elegant and light-footed. The lively acidity leads to an extremely long and crystalline finish.

The wine has received impressive scores from wine critics: James Suckling: 987/100 points / Heiner Lobenberg: 97–98+/100 points / Vinous 96/100 points

The Günther Steinmetz Riesling Mosel Neumagener Rosengärtchen "Am Fels" is an impressive, dry Riesling with plenty of tension, minerality, and ripe yellow fruit. Sourced from the steep, pink slate soils of the Rosengärtchen plot, this wine delivers a powerful yet elegant expression of the terroir. The wine is intense, precise, has good acidity, and a long, salty finish. All of this makes it ideal for refined, pure dishes where texture and contrast play a key role.

Below are some suitable wine and food pairings, with explanations of why they complement the character of this wine so well:

1. Grilled or poached fish with a butter or citrus sauce
For example, turbot, sea bass or cod with beurre blanc or a sauce based on lemon and fresh herbs.

Why this fits well:
The wine's vibrant acidity and mineral undertones cut effortlessly through the sauce's creamy texture, keeping the dish fresh. At the same time, the ripe fruit in the wine enhances the subtle umami and oiliness of the fish without overpowering it.

2. Seafood such as scallops, prawns or lobster with a slightly spicy note
For example, grilled scallops with fennel and orange or shrimps with lemongrass and fresh mint.

Why this fits well:
The combination of saltiness, the sweetness of shellfish, and refined spices complements the interplay of acidity, minerality, and aromatic fruit in the wine. The wine's structure is robust enough to complement the dish without disrupting the delicate flavors.

3. Roasted or baked poultry with fresh garnishes
For example, chicken or guinea fowl with roasted root vegetables, apple and a light white wine sauce.

Why this fits well:
The wine enhances the savory notes of poultry, while the crisp acidity and mineral tension contrast beautifully with the roasted notes of the dish. The wine's fruity aromas complement the apple or carrot garnish.

4. Vegetable dishes with earthy or spicy elements
Think roasted cauliflower with tahini, baked eggplant with yogurt and mint, or a lentil salad with cumin and lemon.

Why this fits well:
The wine balances earthy and spicy flavors thanks to its purity and lively structure. The fresh acidity lightens the dish and provides contrast to the soft, rich textures of legumes or roasted vegetables.

5. Asian-inspired dishes without overpowering sweetness
For example, salmon sashimi with ponzu, or steamed dumplings with mushrooms and soy sauce.

Why this fits well:
The wine's fine structure matches the elegance of raw or steamed dishes. The salty and umami-rich flavors of Asian ingredients are beautifully supported by the wine's mineral and briny profile, while the acidity keeps everything balanced.

6. Mature semi-hard cheeses or goat's cheese
For example, Comté aged 12-18 months, mature goat's cheese or Appenzeller.

Why this fits well:
The slightly nutty, salty, and umami notes of these cheeses naturally balance out the ripe fruit and the wine's tension. The acidity refreshes the palate with every bite, creating balance and vibrancy.

​

FACT: The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pickup" at checkout. We're located in Dordrecht with ample parking. Click here for our address.