Description
The Ungsteiner vineyards are characterized by their rare and unique Terra Rossa soils, incredibly iron rich and red in color, with compact clayey density. The Nussriegel, lying below the Weilberg on the gently sloped hillside, has less of the Terra Rossa than the Grand cru Weilberg, but it does have a bit intermixed with its decomposed sandstone and clay. If I were asked to pick a wine in the range that was a right-down-the middle, stereotypical example of sandstone Pfalz Riesling, this one would be it. My impression of the ’21 was in line with my historical impressions of this cuvée, that of the most “typical” Pfalz sandstone Riesling flavors, yet with a greater sense of definition than in the past. Whilst the wine is a very good example, I didn’t find myself as wide eyed as I did with the limestone driven cuvées, which perhaps says more about my personal rockhead tastes than anything else. It is clear that they are taking greater strides with this cuvée as time marches on.
“The sample of the 2019 Riesling Ungsteiner Nussriegel offers a pure, fresh and mineral bouquet that is still very reductive. It is from the first Riesling vineyard picked last year (on sandstone soils) and was vinified in used barriques and halbstücks (75%) and in stainless steel. It is full-bodied and rich yet bone-dry, with juicy fruit and ripe acidity. This is a mouth-filling and juicy wine with warmth and power but also substance and elegance. To be bottled in June or July this year and to be released in September. Tasted at the domain in March 2020.” 91-92 Stephan Reinhardt for the 2019, NOT THE 2021 OFFERED HERE