2012 Wittmann Kirchspiel Riesling GG Trocken x 4 bottles 75...

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R3,200 - R6,000

2012 Wittmann Kirchspiel Riesling GG Trocken
x 4 bottles 750ml

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PLEASE NOTE THIS WINE IS IN JOHANNESBURG
Weingut Wittmann is a well-regarded wine estate based in the wine-growing village of Westhofen in the Rheinhessen region of Germany. It is primarily dedicated to the production of top-quality Riesling wines sourced from the four Grosses Gewächs-classified sites in Westhofen – Aulerde, Kirchspiel, Morstein and Brunnenhauschen. The Wittmann family has a long history of winemaking in the area, dating back to 1663. Philipp Wittmann was named Winemaker of the Year 2014 by the Gault Millau Wine Guide, with the judges praising him as "one of the pioneers of organic viticulture and a driving force behind quality developments" in the southern Rheinhessen. "For many years he has produced superb dry Rieslings with fascinating ageing potential," they went on. "Almost single-handedly he elevated the Morstein site to legendary status." Philipp’s ancestors have been winegrowers in the old market town of Westhofen since the mid-1600s. His father Günter put the estate on an organic footing, and it’s been a member of organic farmers' association Naturland since 1990. Philipp then took the step to go biodynamic in 2004. He lays the foundation for wines of exceptional quality through intensive, year-round vineyard maintenance, low yields and the uncompromising selection of bunches by hand. For the most part, the wines ferment in traditional, old oak casks or stainless steel and fermentation often continues into the year following the harvest. Already firmly established as one of Germany’s superstar producers, this young winemaker has a brilliant future ahead of him. Biodynamic producer.

The Kirchspiel site opens toward the Rhine like an amphitheater. Its southern and southeastern exposure protects the vines from cold westerly winds – and accounts for the excellent micro climate of the vineyard. The soil structure is similar to that of the Morstein site, marked by clayish marl interspersed with limestone. Limestone is the predominant component of the subsoil, too. Old vines, diminished growth, and very low yields are the decisive factors that shaped this wine’s character.

Wittmann's grapes are harvested by hand and processed in modern presses that replicate the action of traditional basket presses. After pressing, the musts are left to ferment spontaneously in oak casks in the presence of natural yeasts.

Jancis Robinson 18,5/20
Wine Spectator 93/100