# Saumagen Riesling Grosses Gewächs (2022)

- **Producer:** Weingut Philipp Kuhn
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Riesling
- **Region:** Pfalz, Germany
- **Style:** Classic
- **Average price:** €40
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** lemon, peach, green fruit, grapefruit, apricot, pastry, biscuit, ginger, almond, dried apricot, cinnamon, petrol (gasoline)

## About this wine

The Saumagen Riesling Grosses Gewächs from Weingut Philipp Kuhn is a dry white wine originating from the esteemed Saumagen vineyard in Kallstadt, Pfalz, Germany. This wine holds the VDP.Grosses Gewächs classification, signifying its origin from a single, top-tier vineyard site recognized for optimal growing conditions and adherence to strict quality standards set by the Verband Deutscher Prädikatsweingüter (VDP). Weingut Philipp Kuhn is a highly regarded estate in the Pfalz, known for its dedication to producing powerful, terroir-driven wines, with Philipp Kuhn actively involved in the winemaking and vineyard management. The Saumagen vineyard itself is celebrated as one of the most prestigious terroirs in the Pfalz, renowned for producing wines of exceptional quality and significant aging potential.

## Interesting facts

- Saumagen means 'pig's stomach' in German, a name given to the vineyard due to its shape and rocky soil.
- Grosses Gewächs (GG) is the highest classification for dry German wines, akin to Grand Cru.
- VDP.GG wines adhere to strict rules on yield, harvest, and quality control.
- The Saumagen vineyard is characterized by its rugged, limestone-rich soil.

## Food pairing

The wine's vibrant acidity acts as a palate cleanser, cutting through richness and fat in dishes. Its minerality complements the delicate flavors of seafood and poultry, while its structure can stand up to richer preparations. The subtle fruit notes can bridge with sweet and savory elements in accompaniments.

## Wine making process

The production of this Saumagen Riesling Grosses Gewächs involves meticulous vineyard management and careful winemaking. Grapes are hand-harvested from the Saumagen vineyard, with strict adherence to VDP guidelines for yield and grape ripeness. Fermentation is typically controlled to preserve the wine's delicate aromas and minerality. While specific aging details vary, the aim is to craft a dry, terroir-expressive wine. The winery's approach emphasizes the purity of the fruit and the distinct character of the vineyard site.