Robert Weil Rheingau Riesling Spätlese 2023

Winery Background and History

Weingut Robert Weil, founded in 1875 by Dr. Robert Weil, is situated in Kiedrich within Germany’s Rheingau wine region. The estate has earned a distinguished reputation for producing exceptional Riesling wines that reflect the unique terroir of their vineyards. Over the years, the winery has seamlessly integrated modern winemaking techniques with traditional practices, focusing exclusively on Riesling cultivated in esteemed parcels like Kiedricher Klosterberg, Kiedricher Gräfenberg, and Kiedricher Turmberg.

Producer and Winemaker

The estate is currently managed by Wilhelm Weil, the fourth generation of the founding family. Under his leadership, Weingut Robert Weil continues to uphold its commitment to quality and innovation. Wilhelm’s dedication to meticulous vineyard management and precise winemaking has solidified the winery’s status as a benchmark producer of premium Riesling wines in the Rheingau region.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The Rheingau region is renowned for its steep, south-facing slopes and proximity to the Rhine River, which together create an ideal microclimate for Riesling cultivation. The vineyards benefit from a combination of deep and medium-deep, stony, fragmented phyllite soils mixed with loess and loam. This unique terroir contributes to the distinctive minerality and complexity of the wines produced from this area.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Riesling

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2023 Rheingau Riesling Spätlese is crafted with the same exacting standards as the estate’s single-vineyard wines. Grapes are sourced from parcels neighboring the classified single-vineyard sites, including pre-selection fruit from top sites, enhancing the wine’s fruit and mineral intensity. The late-picked grapes undergo fermentation and maturation designed to preserve their natural sweetness and vibrant acidity, resulting in a balanced and expressive wine.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

8.5%

Tasting Notes

This classic Rheingau Spätlese presents complex fruit aromas with natural residual sweetness, balanced by lively acidity. On the palate, it offers lush notes of ripe stone fruits, citrus, and a hint of minerality, leading to a long, elegant finish. The wine’s harmonious interplay of sweetness and acidity makes it both approachable in its youth and promising for extended aging.

Food & Wine Pairing

The balanced sweetness and acidity of this Spätlese make it a versatile companion to a variety of dishes. It pairs exceptionally well with spicy Asian cuisine, such as Thai or Szechuan dishes, where the wine’s sweetness complements the heat. Additionally, it complements rich pâtés, blue cheeses, and fruit-based desserts, enhancing the flavors and providing a refreshing contrast.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the nuances of this Riesling Spätlese, serve it well-chilled at a temperature between 8 to 10 degrees Celsius (46 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit). Using a white wine glass with a slightly tapered rim will help concentrate the aromas and enhance the tasting experience. Decanting is not necessary; simply uncork and pour to enjoy its vibrant character.

Storage and Aging Potential

While this Spätlese is delightful in its youth, showcasing fresh fruit flavors and lively acidity, it also possesses remarkable aging potential. When stored in optimal conditions—cool, dark, and with a consistent temperature—it can evolve over the next 30 years or more, developing deeper complexity and nuanced tertiary flavors that further enhance its appeal.