NUMEN Riesling 2021

Wine Description for NUMEN Riesling 2021 by Johannes Zillinger

Colour & Appearance

Radiant, intense golden yellow – a testament to the physiological ripeness of the grapes and the 18-month yeast maturation.

Nose

Impressively complex: ripe apples and citrus fruits form the foundation, layered with exotic notes of mango and pineapple. Honey, candied ginger and lemon balm add a spicy-sweet dimension. The mineral depth already hints that there is more to this glass than a conventional Riesling.

Palate

The opening surprises with a sweet-saline interplay that deceives – in fact, the wine is dry. The vibrant acidity brings tension and freshness, whilst a pronounced minerality grounds the wine. Unusual for Riesling: a delicate tannin structure that adds spicy accents and demands food pairing.

Finish

Exceptionally long and persistent. The mineral signature remains present, accompanied by spicy notes that linger on the palate.

Terroir & Origin

From the Weinviertel, Austria’s largest wine region. The grapes come from Zillinger’s oldest vines – roots that run deep and deliver concentrated, characterful fruit.

Grape Variety & Vinification

A minimal-intervention Riesling par excellence: spontaneous fermentation in amphorae, 18 months on yeast, unrefined, unfiltered. Zillinger allows the wine to find its own pace – the result is a Riesling with texture, depth and an almost Burgundian complexity.

Food Pairing Suggestions

The delicate tannin structure and spicy minerality make this wine an ideal partner for seared scallops, monkfish with saffron sauce, smoked trout or goat’s cheese with honey. Also an exciting choice alongside Asian dishes with ginger and lemongrass.

Special Characteristics

NUMEN – Latin for “divine power” – is Zillinger’s metaphysical approach in a glass. This is no crowd-pleasing terrace wine, but a meditative, distinctive Riesling that deserves time and attention. A wine that demonstrates what the variety is capable of when given space to unfold.