Vinothek Riesling trocken 2002 1500ml Magnum
The Nikolaihof Vinothek Riesling trocken 2002 is a late bottling of the Riesling Smaragd from the single vineyard Im Weingebirge above Mautern, aged for sixteen years in a 3,500-litre oak cask and presented here in magnum.
CHF 258.50
Prices in CHF, including customs duty and all import charges, plus shipping CHF 15 (free from 12 bottles or CHF 300) — no further charges on delivery.
Available for Switzerland
Magnum — counts as 2 bottles in the case.
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About this wine
Character
A Wachau Riesling that speaks of structure and texture rather than primary fruit. It is brimming with vitality and tension while remaining thoroughly transparent and clear. After sixteen years in large oak casks and at 12.5% ABV, it feels as though it is only just beginning its journey.
Terroir and Origin
The Im Weingebirge single vineyard is situated directly above Mautern, a gentle slope rising from 207 to 223 metres, in the monopole ownership of the Saahs family. The soil consists of paragneiss with a loess top layer, and the site enjoys over 2,500 hours of sunshine per year. It is considered Europe's first documented vineyard, recorded as early as the year 470.
Grape Variety and Vinification
100% Riesling, harvested at Smaragd ripeness levels. A 350-year-old wooden beam press operates in the Roman vaulted cellar, where musts ferment spontaneously in large oak casks. This Vinothek bottling matured for sixteen years in a 3,500-litre oak cask, whereas the regular 2002 Smaragd was bottled significantly earlier.
On the Palate
The bouquet opens with beeswax, accompanied by a herbal extract reminiscent of the finest genevers, freshly sliced firm apricot, and crushed stone; with air, the yellow stone fruit becomes more opulent. The attack is creamy and tightly woven, a delicate acidity ties everything together, and the phenolics impart gravitas. Earthy, stony, and spicy notes extend towards liquorice and wax, flanked by subtle hints of stone and pome fruit. The finish lingers long and juicy.
Food Pairings
Arctic char with clover, fig, and beeswax, braised zucchini blossoms with spring vegetables and virgin honey, or veal kidney with cress, capers, and potatoes.
Distinctions
Nikolaihof stands on Roman foundations dating back to 63 BC and is Austria's oldest winery. The Saahs family has farmed biodynamically according to Demeter standards since 1971; the estate is regarded as the oldest Demeter-certified winery in the world and remains the only certified biodynamic producer in the Wachau. This magnum comes from the Vinothek line, renowned for its exceptionally long cask ageing.
