Kastanienbusch Riesling GG 2024

Wine Description for Kastanienbusch Riesling GG 2024 by Ökonomierat Rebholz

Colour & Appearance

Luminous straw yellow in the glass, clear and brilliant – a Riesling that already promises elegance and freshness on the eye.

Nose

In contrast to the opulent previous vintage, the 2024 initially presents itself with restraint, almost shyly, yet this nobility belies no lack of depth. With a little air, greengage plums and mirabelle plums unfold, grated apples, exotic notes of physalis and carambola. These are joined by white tea, almond, Provençal herbs such as thyme and calendula, a hint of pepper – a fine, multi-layered aromatic interplay that rewards patience.

Palate

On the palate, Kastanienbusch reveals its true stature: stone fruit of impressive depth, flanked by tree fruit, grapefruit, kumquat and bitter orange. The zests and skins lend the wine a savoury spice. At just 12% alcohol – barely noticeable – it displays a silky-elegant acidity that carries the wine without dominating. The mineral tension from the iron-rich Rotliegendes is electrifying. Calm and power, delicacy and presence – this wine unites opposites with admirable ease.

Finish

Long, focused, crystal-clear. The mineral freshness lingers, accompanied by fine stone fruit notes and a salty hint that invites the next sip.

Terroir & Origin

The vineyard site Kastanienbusch lies at 320 metres elevation – the highest Großes Gewächs site in the South Palatinate. West of Birkweiler, sheltered in a valley basin from the cool winds of the Palatinate Forest. The Rebholz parcels belong to the historic original plot. The soil of loose granite, slate and melaphyre with iron-rich Rotliegendes characterises the distinctive minerality. The steep hillside location (30-35% gradient) ensures optimal drainage and sun exposure.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Riesling, after destemming 24 hours of skin contact, then pre-clarification and natural sedimentation. Maturation in stainless steel tank with six months on the lees – classical, purist vinification that gives terroir pride of place.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Scallops with lemon butter, pike-perch on fennel vegetables, calf’s sweetbread with morels, poached lobster, asparagus with hollandaise sauce, but also mature Comté or Gruyère.

Special Characteristics

A Großes Gewächs that combines modesty with greatness – a wine for contemplation and grand moments alike. The combination of moderate alcohol and impressive complexity makes it one of the most exciting German Rieslings of the vintage.