# Geheimrat J Riesling Spätlese Trocken (2015)

- **Producer:** Weingüter Wegeler
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Riesling
- **Region:** Rheingau, Germany
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €329
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** apple, lemon, peach, grapefruit, pastry, biscuit, petrol (gasoline), honey, almond

## About this wine

The Geheimrat J Riesling Spätlese Trocken from Weingüter Wegeler, vintage 2015, is a dry white wine from Germany's Rheingau region. The 'Geheimrat J' designation signifies a wine of exceptional quality, produced only in vintages where the quality surpasses that of 'Erste Gewächse' (First Growths). The 'Spätlese Trocken' classification indicates that the wine is made from late-harvested grapes, fermented to dryness. Weingüter Wegeler is a family-owned winery established in 1882, now in its fourth generation, known for its holdings in top Rheingau vineyards and its role in initiating the 'Erste Gewächse' classification.

## Interesting facts

- The 'J' in Geheimrat J is pronounced 'jot'.
- This wine is considered a 'Schatzkammer-Wein' (treasure chamber wine).
- It's a back-vintage release, allowing for further bottle development.
- Weingüter Wegeler was a VDP initiator for 'Erste Gewächse'.

## Food pairing

The wine's high acidity cuts through the richness of fatty dishes and cleanses the palate. Its subtle fruit notes and dry profile complement the delicate flavors of fish and poultry, while its intensity can stand up to spicier cuisines.

## Wine making process

The Geheimrat J Riesling Spätlese Trocken is produced from late-harvested Riesling grapes (Spätlese) that are meticulously hand-harvested. The winemaking process focuses on fermenting these ripe grapes to complete dryness, a key technique for this style of wine. Following fermentation, the wine may undergo maturation on fine lees to enhance complexity. The producer's philosophy emphasizes capturing the essential characteristics of dry Riesling through precise winemaking, with farming practices designed to respect the natural ecosystem.