Riesling Zell Kreuzberg GG 2022

Wine Description for Riesling Zell Kreuzberg GG 2022 by Battenfeld-Spanier

Character

Battenfeld-Spanier ranks among the outstanding protagonists of the Rheinhessen Riesling renaissance. The Zell Kreuzberg GG embodies the estate’s philosophy: uncompromising precision and the translation of an extraordinary terroir into the bottle. With 12.5% alcohol and a dry style, this Riesling displays tension-laden elegance, combining power with finesse – a wine that rewards patience and invites contemplation.

Terroir & Origin

The Kreuzberg near Zell lies at the heart of Rheinhessen and represents one of the region’s underestimated vineyard sites. The sloping vineyard with its calcareous soils and cooling influences create ideal conditions for Riesling with depth. Battenfeld-Spanier has consistently committed to organic viticulture and low yields here to bring out the mineral signature of the terroir. The 2022 vintage produced wines of remarkable clarity and tension despite climatic challenges.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Riesling finds its distinctive expression in Rheinhessen on calcareous soils – less overtly fruity than on the Mosel or Nahe, but with pronounced mineral structure and saline spice. Battenfeld-Spanier vinifies their Großen Gewächse with minimalist intervention: spontaneous fermentation, extended lees ageing, maturation in traditional wooden casks. The result is wines that do not seek to please, but place authenticity and provenance at the forefront – Riesling as both serious food wine and meditation wine alike.

Food Pairing Recommendations

The dry, mineral structure predestines this Riesling for demanding gastronomy. Classically, it harmonises with freshwater fish, such as pike-perch or trout, as well as with scallops or crayfish. The calcareous spice pairs beautifully with goat’s cheese and aged Comté. The wine also demonstrates its versatility with asparagus with hollandaise sauce or sweetbreads. A GG that does not dominate the cuisine, but rather complements and elevates it.