Riesling Zellerweg am Schwarzen Herrgott GG 2022 1500ml Magnum

The Riesling Zellerweg am Schwarzen Herrgott GG 2022 from Battenfeld-Spanier is a dry Grosses Gewächs from Rheinhessen that draws its strength from coolness and tension. Young, it seems closed; a few hours of air open it up to lemon, grapefruit and green apple, followed by verbena, mint, seashells, toasted shellfish shell and a hint of soy sauce.

The site lies at the start of the Zellertal basin, on a steep, narrow fault edge that shields the vineyard from rain and from the full intensity of the sunlight. Beneath it lies pure limestone bedrock, which gives the Riesling its taut, saline texture. The border between Rheinhessen and the northern Palatinate runs right through the middle of the vineyard. Around 700 AD, the Irish monk Philipp von Zell planted his mass wine vineyard here, within walking distance of his monastery near Zell. The cross the monks erected weathered black over time, giving the site its name; thanks to this record, the Schwarzer Herrgott ranks among the oldest documented winegrowing sites.

100% Riesling, 12.5% vol., dry. Battenfeld-Spanier has farmed biodynamically since 2005, using preparations 500 and 501 and the phases of the moon to set the rhythm of vineyard work. In the cellar, spontaneous fermentation takes place in large wooden casks and steel tanks, with minimal use of sulphur and no fining agents.

It is incisive, with a touch reminiscent of salt-cured lemon. Citrus fruit and fresh herbs remain present, and the finish is long, carrying plenty of umami. Great ageing potential.

Ramen noodles with vegetables and Thai curry sauce, mackerel with cucumber, mustard seeds, basil and ham crisps, or almond-crusted prawns with preserved lemon sauce and pumpkin.

Bottled in 1500 ml magnum. If possible, aerate for several hours and taste from large glasses.