Riesling Marienburg Grosse Lage “Raffes” 2021

The "Falkenlay" parcel lies between "Fahrlay" and "Rothenpfad". The soil here is somewhat deeper and characterised by grey slate. This area was always considered by the old winegrowers to be the fillet piece of the Marienburg. Protected by its special location from the cold winds from the mountain saddle to the east, the grapes always reach a special ripeness here. The wines from the healthy grapes are fruity, creamy and not only particularly full-bodied, but also finely mineral. The noble sweet selections and berry selections from the botrytis selections, which are usually among the best in our winery, also show special qualities. We harvest a very special selection of healthy grapes from one of our oldest terraces within the "Falkenlay", named "RAFFES" in the cadastral records. Year after year, this selection provides the basis for the densest and most concentrated wine of the Marienburg Raffes estate.

Sparkling straw yellow with green reflections

At first smell, the 2021 Marienburg Raffes GG lives up to its reputation. The density of aromas is unparalleled, without conveying opulence. Vineyard peach is in the foreground, along with apricot and orange zest. Behind this, however, dark nuances of wet stones, flint, warm slate soil as well as some cold smoke build up. Elderberry and raspberry build up and fight a duel in the second row with red apples and fresh pears. Sage, oregano and mint as well as eucalyptus and lemon balm show a versatile and ever-burgeoning herbal spiciness. Refreshing, ethereal and captivating. Fresh pea, coriander seed and fennel provide a further escalation of complexity.

On the palate, it is no less complex than its nose suggests. It seems dense and builds up real pressure on the palate. Its elegance is a new reference value. It picks up the pace on the palate in a racy manner. The fruit is pushed into the background. Minerality and acidity take over. With a lot of finesse, a cool, stony mouthfeel, it puts its sensory stamp on you. The herbs combine ethereal freshness, coolness and spiciness on the palate and long aftertaste. Its mouthfeel dominates the palate for minutes. A great Riesling with great potential for eternity.