Donnhoff Oberhauser Brucke Spatlese is an exquisite German Riesling produced by the renowned Donnhoff estate. Donnhoff, located in the Nahe region of Germany, is widely regarded as one of the country’s most prestigious wineries, consistently producing wines of exceptional quality and character.
PRODUCER AND VINEYARD
The Donnhoff estate has a rich history dating back to 1750 when it was first established. Today, it is run by Helmut Donnhoff and his son Cornelius, who are committed to continuing the family’s winemaking traditions while embracing modern techniques and sustainable practices.
The Oberhauser Brucke vineyard, from which this Spatlese is sourced, is one of the most celebrated sites in the Nahe region. The vineyard is characterised by its steep slopes and slate-rich soils, which impart unique mineral nuances to the wines. The combination of the vineyard’s microclimate, the family’s meticulous viticulture, and their skillful winemaking techniques contribute to the creation of exceptional Rieslings.
WINEMAKING
Spatlese is a German classification indicating that the grapes used for the wine were harvested later than those for Kabinett wines, allowing them to reach a higher level of ripeness. This extended ripening period adds richness and intensity to the resulting wine. Donnhoff Oberhauser Brucke Spatlese is a prime example of the Spatlese style, showcasing the perfect balance between natural sweetness and vibrant acidity.
The winemaking process for Donnhoff Oberhauser Brucke Spatlese involves meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to preserving the unique characteristics of the vineyard. The grapes are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness, ensuring the preservation of the vibrant fruit flavours. Gentle pressing of the grapes extracts the juice without excessive extraction of tannins, resulting in a delicate and elegant wine.
Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, where the wine undergoes a slow and cool fermentation to preserve its natural aromas and flavours. The fermentation process is carefully monitored to maintain the desired balance of sweetness and acidity. Following fermentation, the wine is aged in traditional German oak barrels, known as “fuder,” to further develop complexity and depth.
IN THE GLASS
The resulting Donnhoff Oberhauser Brucke Spatlese displays a beautiful golden colour in the glass. On the nose, it exudes captivating aromas of ripe stone fruits such as peach and apricot, intermingled with floral notes of honeysuckle and hints of citrus zest. On the palate, the wine delights with its luscious sweetness, balanced by a vibrant acidity that gives it a refreshing and lively character. Flavours of tropical fruits, honey, and slate minerality unfold, leading to a long, lingering finish.
Donnhoff Oberhauser Brucke Spatlese is a wine that exemplifies the precision, craftsmanship, and sense of place that the Donnhoff estate is known for. It is a wine of remarkable quality that showcases the unique terroir of the Nahe region and is sure to captivate both Riesling enthusiasts and those new to German wines.
Food pairing suggestion: Grilled halibut with basil-shallot butter.
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