Vinothek Riesling trocken „Fass Severin“ 1997

Wine Description for Vinothek Riesling Dry „Fass Severin“ 1997 by Nikolaihof

Colour & Appearance

Radiant straw yellow with brilliant reflections – a wine that carries its 25 years with remarkable clarity and youthfulness.

Nose

Here reveals itself the full magic of aged Riesling: rather than opulent fruit, this wine showcases multi-layered finesse. Over green apricot float elderflower, acacia and linden blossoms, accentuated by lemon balm and a trace of linseed oil. Subtle dried fruit completes an aromatic conglomerate of remarkably vibrant freshness – a wine that continually evolves over days whilst remaining consistently grand. Time in the glass or decanter is here not a recommendation, but a necessity.

Palate

Impressively subtle rather than powerful. Uncompromisingly dry with filigree structure and creamy texture. On the palate saline with slightly resinous accents and distinctive maturation notes that lend it its aromatic edginess. The noble tannin persists, the acidity refined and long-arcing. Despite its austere appearance, extract-rich with sublimely silky fullness and enormous aromatic concentration.

Finish

Herbal and well-defined with high vibration in the cathedral-like aftertaste. The saline finish works as an invigorating spice and of impressive length – a wine that remains present hours later.

Terroir & Origin

From the legendary Wachau, aged in the historic Roman cellar of Nikolaihof – Austria’s oldest wine estate with roots dating to 63 AD. The Fass Severin (3300 litres), adorned with wooden carvings, is dedicated to Saint Severin of Mautern and houses the reserve wines for cellar bottlings.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Riesling, cultivated biodynamically (Demeter-certified) since 1971. Aged 25 years in large wooden cask, bottled only in spring 2022 – a prime example of the longevity of Austrian Riesling.

Food Recommendations

Porcini ravioli in sage butter, skate wing with capers and lemon in salted butter beurre blanc or calf’s sweetbreads with bread dumplings. The saline minerality and noble tannin harmonise beautifully with umami-rich mushroom dishes and delicate offal.

Special Features

Second bottling from the 1997 vintage (first release in 2014). A wine that places elegance above opulence and proves that true greatness lies in subtlety. Drinking beautifully now, but with further ageing potential for at least a decade.