Variegated slate Riesling

A Riesling from the highest point of the Rheingau — slender, mineral, with that characteristic salt streak left by variegated slate soils.

The Spreitzer winery in Oestrich-Winkel is one of the most reliable wineries in the Rheingau. The family consistently cultivates the Hallgarten vineyards – vineyards on Taunus quartzite and variegated slate, significantly cooler than the Rhine riverbank sites, resulting in a correspondingly crisp acidity. The 11.5% alcohol by volume is no accident here, but rather the natural result of this high altitude.

In the glass, it displays lemon zest, white peach, and a mineral, stony undertone reminiscent of wet slate. The body is lean and taut, the acidity lively without harshness, and the finish long with that slightly salty note typical of weathered quartzite soils.

• Temperature: 10–12 °C
• Drinking window: now until 2028
• Dishes: Pike-perch fillet with butter and capers, asparagus with hollandaise sauce, goat cheese or light seafood