Riesling Federspiel trocken 2016 1500ml Magnum

Wine description for Riesling Federspiel dry 2016 1500ml Magnum from Nikolaihof

Colour & Appearance

Rich golden yellow, radiant and brilliant – a wine that visually displays its six years of maturation in large wooden cask without sacrificing its crystalline clarity.

Nose

Here the full magic of the late release reveals itself: linseed oil, nutshell and acacia blossom form the spicy foundation, whilst ethereal notes of orange blossom, nutmeg blossom and basmati rice hover above. Distinctive maturation notes without any oxidation – an aromatic profile in permanent metamorphosis that absolutely demands air. Decanting is essential.

Palate

Electric, pulsating, vibrant: the first sip triggers immediate salivation. A rapier-like acidity propels the wine forward with youthful verve, refined and linear. Despite its maturity, it displays remarkable accessibility, with low drinking resistance and rapid flow – a paradox of concentration and lightness.

Finish

Piquant and long-lasting, with vibrating intensity. The acidity keeps the palate in tension whilst the spicy notes resonate – a finale that invites the next sip.

Terroir & Origin

Grown on loess-loamy Danube gravel in the Wachau, from Austria’s oldest wine estate, whose roots trace back to 63 AD. Farmed biodynamically since 1971, Demeter-certified – here they work with nettle tea and valerian drops instead of chemicals.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Riesling in pure form, matured for six years in large, old wooden cask, bottled only in June 2022. This „Late Release“ impressively demonstrates how biodynamics and patient ageing can lend additional dimensions to a Federspiel wine.

Food Pairing Recommendations

The acidity structure and spicy complexity make it ideal for char with sorrel sauce, roasted root vegetables with salt lemon and sesame or surprisingly also for Chinese BBQ lamb ribs with chilli and cumin – the magnum bottle makes it the perfect companion for larger gatherings.

Special Features

A rare example of Austrian Riesling with extended cask maturation in magnum format – patience that pays off.