Wines Wachau DAC Domäne Wachau - Riesling Smaragd Achleiten - 2016

Domäne Wachau’s 2016 Riesling Smaragd Achleiten is a standout Austrian white, crafted from one of the Wachau region’s most esteemed single vineyards. This wine is made exclusively from the Riesling grape, with the “Smaragd” designation signalling its richness and late harvest ripeness—Smaragd is the highest-quality category in Wachau, reserved for concentrated, fuller-bodied wines typically intended for cellaring. The Achleiten vineyard, with its steep, rocky terraces and thin soils composed largely of Gföhler gneiss and weathered rock, imparts both minerality and a clear, focused structure to the wine. Vinification at Domäne Wachau balances precision with a gentle touch, allowing the distinctive character of the grape and terroir to express themselves fully. The 2016 vintage was marked by a cool spring, a warm summer, and an extended autumn that favoured slow, even ripening, giving wines of great purity and aromatic complexity.

Wachau, nestled along the Danube in Lower Austria, enjoys a cool continental climate tempered by the river’s moderating effects. The region benefits from warm days and cool nights during the growing season, which results in wines with vibrant acidity and defined fruit flavours. The steep terraces and poor, stony soils encourage vines to root deeply, yielding low but highly expressive crops. Wachau’s viticultural tradition stretches back to medieval times—its landscape and winemaking culture have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status, attesting to its unique pairing of natural beauty and craftsmanship.

This Riesling excels at the table, where its intense stone fruit, citrus, and mineral notes pair delightfully with food. It suits classic Austrian fare such as Wiener Schnitzel or Tafelspitz, as well as freshwater fish dishes like grilled trout with herbs. Asian cuisine—think Thai or Vietnamese with ginger and lemongrass—also complements the wine’s aromatic lift and freshness. Soft, aged cheeses and shellfish present further possibilities.

For optimum enjoyment, serve this wine well chilled, ideally between 10-12°C. Decanting for 30 minutes may enhance its complexity, especially if enjoying it near peak maturity. Over time, expect the wine to develop intriguing nuances of honey, spice, and dried apricot.