The Rhine interrupts its journey from Switzerland to the North Sea only once, when it makes a broad bend at Wiesbaden, where it flows from east to west for some 30 km (20 miles) before its next bend at Rudesheim, where it resumes it northerly course. Vines have long been cultivated on the south-facing slopes of the northern riverbank, nestled between the Rhine and the protective forests of the Taunus Hills. With the advent of Riesling, the region achieved world fame. Nearly 80% of its 3,100 ha (some 7,700 acres) are planted with Riesling – a record among wine regions worldwide. The region’s easternmost vineyards overlook the Main River; the westernmost extend from Ru.desheim to Assmannshausen and Lorch.
Its geological history is millions of years old, during which its diverse soils developed: quartzite and slate; loess; and gravelly, sandy, and clay sediments of the Mainz Basin, a prehistoric sea – soils that mark the terroirs in which Riesling thrives. The wines: elegant, fragrant Rheingau Rieslings of great finesse and longevity, whether dry or lusciously sweet. The finest fetch tremendous prices at auction.
Riesling dry
1. 2006 Schloss Reinhartshausen Hattenheimer Riesling Kabinett dry
Riesling dry
£133.20 case £11.40 bottle
Powerful, dry Kabinett in perfect combination with Rheingauer elegance! A fine wine with aromas of ripe apricots, skins of yellow citrus fruits and apple. A full bodied wine with a stylish and well balanced acidity - the perfect companion to a variety of dishes.
Riesling dry
2. 2010 Schloss Reinhartshausen Hattenheimer Nussbrunnen Riesling QbA dry
Riesling dry
£174.60 case £14.55 bottle
A hint of citrus emphasizes the great refreshing taste of white peach and apricot. The typical richness and smoothness of the vintage 2009 even highlights the minerality of the Nussbrunnen. This expressiveness makes the wine to an ideal companion for aromatic and flavoursome dishes, which demand a lasting wine.
Riesling off-dry
3. 2009 Schloss Reinhartshausen Hattenheimer Wisselbrunnen Riesling off-dry
Riesling off-dry
£174.60 case £14.55 bottle
The freshness of fine mineral fruit elements is one of the individual characteristics for the wines from the Wisselbrunnen. Delicate aromas of apple, the evolving bouquet of apricots and black current give the wine a unique smell, while the play between the acidity and the subtle residual sugar continues. This wine may be a great companion for a classical beurre blanc.
Riesling GC dry
4. 2009 Schloss Reinhartshausen Erbach Schlossberg Riesling Grand Cru dry
Riesling GC dry
£310.80 case £25.90 bottle
In the nose the Schlossberg shows yellow ripe fruits. The fruity taste is complemented with hints of herbs and spicy aromas. The richness of the wine is well integrated through the characteristic and smooth structure of the acidity, harmoniously presenting a long and lasting finish.
Dessert
5. 2009 Schloss Reinhartshausen Siegelsberg Riesling Auslese (0.5l)
Dessert
£237.60 case £19.80 bottle
This late harvest wine presents itself fruity and very aromatic, with a lasting sweetness. The intense bouquet of ripe quince, pineapple and white peach give the wine a well rounded flavour. A great wine to enjoy after a delicious meal: either to dessert, or just as a sweet on its own.
Grand Cru
6. 2010 Schloss Reinhartshausen Estate Riesling dry
Grand Cru
£136.80 case £11.40 bottle
The character of the bouquet is rich with gentle hints of fresh, green apples and apricots. On the palate he shows strength, refinement and marvellous aromas. A refreshing, hearty Riesling with a long finish.
2010 and 2011 available.
Cost per case of 12 – inc. VAT, exc. delivery
(some vintages may vary)
Please note: trade pricelist is available on request.