Rudi Pichler Achleithen Riesling Smaragd 2022 (750ML)

99 JS / 97 VM

This astonishing dry riesling is already wonderful to drink, but it is, in fact, still very youthful and just beginning to reveal its awesome treasures. The very cool nose of white peach and wild herbs pulls you inexorably into the tunnel of incredibly intense wet stone minerality on the medium-bodied palate. And once you are in that tunnel it feels like there’s no exit and no turning back. In spite of this uncompromising nature, this is also so refined and so silky at the finish, it’s a wonder. Drink or hold.—James Suckling

The 2022 Riesling Achleiten Smaragd opens with a flinty, smoky aspect before its citrus focus kicks in. The palate is light and transparent, with a lovely fill of fruit held in a tight and stony frame. Gazelle-like, this is incredibly stone-like in nature. It embodies that stoniness in its sleekness—ethereal and lifted, but anchored by minerality. This is a picture of stony, profound exactitude. (Bonedry) -- Anne Krebiehl MW, Vinous Media