2021 Wittmann Aulerde Riesling Grosses Gewachs, Rheinhessen

The 2021 vintage has given the bold and generous character of this site a cool herbal element. Next to the ripe mirabelle and melon fruit are notes of licorice and sandalwood. The grapefruit acidity lifts the rather full body very nicely. Quite a firm finish with plenty of fine tannins. From biodynamically grown grapes with Respekt certification. Vegan. Drink or hold.

94 points jamessuckling.com

This Riesling is a zesty and savory version of the grape, sporting plenty of spice, salty minerality and citrus notes. Nuances of orchard and stone fruit emerge with some air, giving this an extra dimension. The acidity is still powerful and needs time to integrate fully, so patience will be rewarded. Best after 2027.

92 points winemag.com

Aulerde is Wittmann's warmest site. Westhofen's southern to southeastern vineyard slopes rise from the glacial valley of the Rhine to the rim of a high plateau. The Aulerde vineyard lies at the foot of the protective eastern and southeastern slopes of the Kirchspiel site. The vines here face slightly south. The upper layers of a small portion of Aulerde are heavy clayish marl with only a very small amount of limestone. Wittmann's Riesling grows where the subsoil contains clayey or gravelly sand.