Riesling “Fuchs” 2018

Fuchs is a small vineyard within the Große Lage Hipping. The only difference is that Kai Schätzel does not bottle a dry Riesling here, but a natural one. The iron-rich clay slate on the Roter Hang usually makes for wild, playful Rielsing types.

The whole grapes are crushed with the feet and then undergo a week of maceration under dry ice. The wine is then fermented spontaneously in barrels and no sulphur is added during the entire process.

Slightly cloudy lemon yellow with delicate orange reflections

The nose is alive with reduction and yeast. It is underpinned with a fine herbal spiciness. Chervil, lemon balm and sage make for an unusual type of Riesling. Acacia blossom, daisies and camomile make it floral and feminine. White pepper and coriander seeds provide a little breeze from the spice rack. Fresh ginger, a little lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves provide a trip to the Far East. It takes tart accents from the maceration period. Especially fresh almonds and green walnuts present themselves from their best side.

On the palate, slender and taut with a good draw. Cool, juicy and pithy. Fuchs has real grip and extract on the palate. Never the slope by width, but totally lean, astringent and silky. The minerality and spicy fruit of the Roter Hang are very perceptible. Just a little lighter, less playful. Instead, it is rougher, purer and more natural. The tart notes come into their own and fit perfectly into the overall picture. The nutty aromas in the finish are also very welcome.