2022 Weingut Donnhoff Riesling Oberhauser Leistenberg Tonschiefer Trocken

For over two centuries, Weingut Dönnhoff has defined the pinnacle of Nahe winemaking. Under the stewardship of Helmut and Cornelius Dönnhoff, the estate has earned a legendary global reputation for crafting Rieslings of extraordinary precision, purity, and mineral elegance. The secret lies in their unmatched collection of steep hillside vineyards along the river Nahe.

The 'Tonschiefer' cuvée takes its name from the distinctive grey-black clay slate (Tonschiefer) soils of the Oberhäuser Leistenberg vineyard. This cool, windy hillside site forces the grape vines to dig deep into the fractured rock for nutrients, creating a dry Riesling brimming with crystalline mineral tension and vibrant energy. In the cellar, Cornelius ferments the hand-picked fruit in a combination of stainless steel and large traditional German oak foudres, preserving raw fruit clarity while adding subtle textural depth.

In the glass, the 2022 release shines a bright pale gold. Aromatic notes of crisp green apple, white peach, elderflower, and crushed flint lift effortlessly from the glass. The palate is bone-dry, electric, and razor-focused, framing flavors of juicy citrus, white fruit, and mouthwatering salinity through a long, slatey finish.