# Gunderloch Nackenheim Riesling Erste Lage (2022)

- **Producer:** Weingut Gunderloch
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Riesling
- **Region:** Rheinhessen, Germany
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €23
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** grapefruit, wild herbs, lemon, bread, biscuit, petrol (gasoline), wet stone

## About this wine

The Gunderloch Nackenheim Riesling Erste Lage 2022 originates from the Nackenheimer Rothenberg vineyard, a steep site with iron-rich red slate soil. This is the sixth generation of the Gunderloch family to manage this historic estate, which is committed to expressing the unique terroir of its vineyards. The winery has embraced organic farming practices, beginning certification in 2022, and was an early adopter of screwcap closures for its entire portfolio. The Nackenheimer Rothenberg vineyard is considered a top site and the estate's home vineyard, contributing to the wine's distinctive character.

## Interesting facts

- Home vineyard: Nackenheimer Rothenberg is Gunderloch's 'home vineyard'.
- Red slate soil: Rich in iron, it gives the wine its distinctive character.
- Organic farming: Gunderloch began its organic certification process in 2022.
- Pioneering screwcaps: Gunderloch was the first German winery to adopt screwcaps for its entire range.

## Food pairing

The wine's animating acidity cuts through richer dishes and complements fatty proteins. Its minerality and subtle herbal notes can echo or contrast with various ingredients, making it versatile for both delicate seafood and more robust white meats.

## Wine making process

The grapes for this Riesling are hand-harvested and undergo a few days of maceration before pressing. Fermentation is spontaneous, occurring in large oak barrels (Stückfässer) without pre-clarification, and is carried through to complete dryness. The wine is then aged in these large wooden barrels. Weingut Gunderloch's approach prioritizes minimal intervention, allowing the wine to develop naturally and express its vineyard origin. The winery has also been an innovator, being the first in Germany to adopt screwcap closures for its entire range.