Riesling „Fuchs“ 2021

Wine Description for Riesling „Fuchs“ 2021 by Schätzel

Colour & Appearance

Slightly hazy orange-gold – a visual hint at the extraordinary maturation under flor yeast and the extended skin contact time.

Nose

A fascinating aromatic profile that goes far beyond conventional Riesling. Nutty notes meet citrus zest, orange peel and the herbal-refreshing mandarin skin. Christmas spices such as cardamom, cinnamon and clove lend depth, whilst apple blossom and orange blossom provide floral elegance. These are joined by yeasty, almost brioche-like nuances, turmeric, candied ginger, mirabelle compote and peach – always without any sweetness. In the background hover white pepper and gingerbread spice.

Palate

Here the Fuchs reveals its true nature: purist, racy, forceful. With high acidity and bone-dry, it presents itself saline and austere. The taut structure deliberately shows edges and angles – an uncompromising wine. Grippy, mineral, crisp. The floral notes give way to concentrated nuttiness, accompanied by quince and ginger. The spice from the nose appears only in hints.

Finish

Long, nutty-mineral, with lingering quince and ginger notes. The acidity carries far and leaves a saline, invigorating impression.

Terroir & Origin

From the parcel Fuchsloch in the VDP.Großen Lage Hipping on the legendary Roten Hang in Rheinhessen. The forty-year-old vines grow partly in the shade of trees and shrubs, some in pergola systems – an unconventional microclimate that gives this wine its individuality.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Riesling, hand-selected and foot-trodden. 48 hours cold maceration, spontaneous fermentation and malolactic conversion in old 600-litre oak barrels. Subsequently 36 months maturation under flor yeast – a technique reminiscent of sherry production that gives this Riesling its nutty-oxidative complexity.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Oysters, scallops, smoked fish, Comté or aged Gruyère, sweetbreads, morels in cream sauce, risotto with porcini mushrooms.

Special Features

A radical, uncompromising Riesling that deliberately breaks with convention. The 36-month flor maturation is virtually unique in Germany and makes this wine an experience for lovers of unconventional, characterful white wines.