2022 Rudi Pichler Riesling "Ried Smaragd Hochrain", Wachau, Austria

ABOUT THE WINE
Hailing from the Hochrain vineyard, a steep, southwest-facing site in Wösendorf composed of weathered gneiss and loess, this Smaragd-level Riesling is the epitome of Wachau richness balanced by precision. The 2022 vintage offered ideal ripening conditions, with warm days and cool nights allowing for concentration without loss of acidity. Fermented spontaneously in stainless steel and aged on the fine lees, the wine is uncompromisingly dry and built for longevity. The Smaragd designation, the highest in the Vinea Wachau system, denotes late harvest fruit and fuller body—though in Pichler’s hands, always with restraint and clarity. Pairs beautifully with roasted pork belly, Thai green curry, or aged mountain cheeses.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER
Rudi Pichler is one of Austria’s most exacting and respected winemakers, based in the heart of the Wachau. A fourth-generation grower, he farms roughly 15 hectares of steep, terraced vineyards across prime sites including Hochrain, Kollmütz, and Achleiten. All farming is done sustainably with a strong emphasis on soil health and low yields. In the cellar, Pichler is meticulous but minimal: spontaneous fermentations, long lees contact, and no manipulation. His wines are known for their tension, purity, and ability to express the nuanced differences of each site. The Ried Hochrain Riesling Smaragd exemplifies this approach—structured, age-worthy, and a clear voice of place.