# Riesling Smaragd Ried Achleiten (2023)

- **Producer:** Domäne Wachau
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Riesling
- **Region:** Niederösterreich, Austria
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €42
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** gooseberry, grapefruit, lemon, apricot, peach, blossom, petrol (gasoline), honey, nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, almond

## About this wine

Domäne Wachau Riesling Smaragd Ried Achleiten 2023 is a dry white wine from Austria's Wachau region. It originates from the renowned Ried Achleiten vineyard, characterized by its steep terraces and meager primary rock soil, contributing to its distinct minerality. The 'Smaragd' classification denotes the highest quality level for dry wines in the Wachau. Domäne Wachau, a prominent Austrian winery, is a cooperative representing over 200 winegrowing families, with a focus on sustainable practices and preserving the unique terroir of their vineyards. The 2023 vintage benefited from optimal harvest conditions, contributing to the wine's structure.

## Interesting facts

- Ried Achleiten's terraces were built in the 1200s.
- Smaragd is the highest quality tier for dry Wachau wines.
- The vineyard soil is primarily gneiss, a hard metamorphic rock.
- Domäne Wachau manages 30% of its own vineyards.

## Food pairing

The wine's vibrant acidity cuts through rich sauces and complements fatty fish, while its minerality harmonizes with earthy vegetables like asparagus. The subtle fruit notes can bridge to lighter proteins and even stand up to the spice in Asian dishes.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for this Riesling begins with fermentation, which is partly spontaneous. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for several months in large wooden fass. The harvest for the 2023 vintage was conducted in October under favorable conditions, with a focus on maintaining a racy and taut structure. Domäne Wachau follows sustainable practices, with the wine being certified vegan and 'Nachhaltig Austria'.