2022 Weingut Prager Riesling "Steinriegl" Federspiel, Wachau, Austria

ABOUT THIS WINE

Riesling’s high acidity makes it one of the most versatile wines at the table. Riesling can be used to cut the fattiness of foods such as pork or sausages and can tame some saltiness. Conversely, it can highlight foods such as fish or vegetables in the same way a squeeze of lemon or a vinaigrette might.

Aged in stainless steel tanks for 7 months then 2 months in bottle.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

With the possibilities of modernity and the knowledge of previous generations, Toni Bodenstein tries to track down the secret of the terroir. In a unique landscape, he produces unmistakable wines that are a reflection of the vineyard from which they come.

Prager belongs to the prestigious Vinea Wachau and vinifies under the strict parameters of their codex. Harvest is typically from October to November. Grapes are hand-harvested, sorted to eliminate botrytis, and sent directly to press where they’re fermented by what Bodenstein describes as “controlled spontaneous fermentation.” Toni Bodenstein prevents malolactic fermentation from occurring. Since 1996, Prager wines have been vinified entirely in stainless-steel tanks. This minimalist approach reveals wines of precision and elegance, moderate levels of alcohol, and clear expression of origin. “Vom Stein zum Wein” (from rocks to wine) is Toni Bodenstein’s motto and his ideology is reflected by his non-interventionist methods in the cellar.