Nikolaihof Riesling Federspiel Late Release (9 years aging), 0.75L, 2017

Description;

This site (Vom Stein) is a sub-site of the larger Silberbichel vineyard. Located south east of the village, this is just 5.25 Ha and is a slight incline, sloping east, on the easternmost border of the Silberbichel vineyard.  The soils are gneiss with mica inclusions; there is a layer of loess and topsoil of 60-120cm before you start to hit primary rock. the grapes of the 2017 vintage were harvested by hand, mashed, pressed and spontaneously fermented. This was followed by almost six years of ageing in an old 7,000-litre wooden barrel before the Riesling Federspiel Late Release was bottled in June 2026 without fining or filtration.

Tasting Notes;

The colour is rich golden yellow, bright and clear. In the glass, pronounced church windows indicate a high extract density. Ripe yellow fruit on the nose, rather restrained for a Riesling, plus stony-spicy and distinctly herbaceous notes. With a little air, exotic hints such as papaya and ginger are added, sometimes in candied form, plus warm light honey notes that suggest ripeness. In the mouth, however, the wine seems surprisingly youthfully fresh, with mild acidity and fine melting. The fruit is secondary here – it’s all about structure, fine phenolics and spice. Mature and self-contained, extremely harmonious and delicate – a completely ageless creature that will survive the next 20 years (even more if stored properly) without any signs of decay. The wine should definitely be decanted at the moment in order to be able to develop in all its nuances. However, it can also be enjoyed well over several days to follow its development in contact with oxygen.

Wine Pairings;

This is great on its own and will be even better with almost any food. It pairs well with fish, shellfish and white meat dishes, even with a bit of spice (Cajun chicken and roasted pork) It would be great with Szechuan food. Sashimi and papaya salad will also pair well.

94 Points, James Suckling

Technical Sheet