2022 Donnhoff Hollenpfad Grosses Gewächs Riesling, Nahe

The fruit comes from the best steep parcels around Dönnhoff's Felsentürmchen in the midst of the magnificent Schlossböckelheimer Felsenberg site. It's outstanding Riesling terroir with a soil of red volcanic igneous rock, a melange of porphyry and melaphyr. Fermented and matured in stainless steel vats and classic oak barrels. “Ripe and concentrated, but also quite austere with stacks of spice and grapefruit character; everything from the juice to the pith and zest! A seriously dry riesling, but with moderate acidity. Long crushed rock finish. From organically grown grapes with Fair'n Green certification. Drink or hold.

95 points Stuart Pigott jamessuckling.com

The Dönnhoff Höllenpfad Grosses Gewächs Riesling from the Nahe is a stunning dry Riesling that exemplifies the elegance and precision of this storied German wine region. Crafted by the esteemed Dönnhoff family, led by Helmut and Cornelius Dönnhoff, this wine reflects generations of winemaking expertise and a deep respect for the region's terroir.

Höllenpfad, translating to “Path to Hell,” refers to the steep and sun-drenched vineyard slopes in the village of Roxheim. The site’s red sandstone soils impart a unique character to the Riesling, enhancing its minerality and aromatic complexity. The grapes are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness, with careful vineyard management ensuring the highest quality fruit for this Grosses Gewächs (Grand Cru) wine.

In the glass, the wine is a bright straw-yellow with green highlights. The nose is expressive and enticing, offering aromas of ripe peach, citrus blossom, and green apple, underscored by a distinctive flinty minerality and hints of wild herbs.

On the palate, the Dönnhoff Höllenpfad Grosses Gewächs is both powerful and refined. Flavors of crisp green apple, lime zest, and stone fruit are complemented by a saline minerality and vibrant acidity, creating a wine that is precise, structured, and deeply satisfying. The finish is long, clean, and refreshing, with layers of complexity that promise excellent aging potential.

This Riesling pairs beautifully with dishes such as grilled fish, roasted poultry, or lightly spiced vegetarian cuisine. While it is delightful in its youth, the wine can evolve gracefully for 10-15 years, developing additional depth and complexity over time.