F.X. Pichler Riesling Ried Loibenberg Smaragd 2021 (750ML)

98 JS / 97 FS / 96 WA

Wonderfully subtle nose with an extremely wide spectrum of exotic fruit (tons of mango) and flowers. Super-ripe with breathtaking freshness that makes this a spectacular Wachau dry riesling. And in spite of all the drama on the front and mid-palate, it ends so gentle and silky. From organically grown grapes. Vegan. Drink or hold.—James Suckling

Pale yellow-green, silver glints. Delicate yellow tropical fruit notes, fine stone fruit, yellow peach, a little pineapple, a hint of blossom honey, and orange zest. Juicy, nuances of yellow stone fruit, crispy and vibrant, racy structure, with a succulent-saline touch. Compelling length, remarkably savoury, and promising ageing potential.--Peter Moser, Falstaff

FX Pichler's 2021 Loibner Riesling Ried Loibenberg is deep, highly complex and coolish on the nose, offering just-ripe mango and apricot aromas with ripe pumpkin seeds as well as notes of crystalline rocks. On the palate, this is a dense, crystalline and precise, tight and intense, even powerful yet not mighty or alcoholic Riesling with insanely concentrated but just-ripe and tight fruit with healthy phenolic grip and great tension. This is another stellar wine of the vintage in the Wachau and, mind you, from one of the warmest crus around. It's a great wine that Riesling lovers shouldn't miss. 13% stated alcohol. Natural cork. Tasted at the domaine in September 2022.—Stephan Reinhardt, The Wine Advocate