Sparkling Wines Nahe Pleitz - 2022

Viniou Reviews

Pleitz Nahe 2022 is a sparkling white wine hailing from the Nahe region in Germany, produced with the precision and care that has made German sparkling wines (Sekt) increasingly appreciated amongst wine lovers. While the specific grape variety isn't mentioned, the Nahe is renowned for its Riesling, which often forms the backbone of high-quality sparkling wines here. The 2022 vintage benefitted from a balanced growing season, yielding grapes with a fine acidity and expressive aromatics. In the traditional method, as is the case with premium German Sekts, the secondary fermentation typically takes place in the bottle, imparting delicate, persistent bubbles and a subtle complexity to the wine. Expect lively aromatics, a crisp structure, and a refreshing dry finish ('sec'), alongside the hallmark fruit purity of the Nahe.

The Nahe wine region, although smaller and less famed than the neighbouring Mosel, has steadily built a reputation for producing some of Germany's most elegant and characterful wines. The region enjoys a mild, relatively dry climate, buffered from extremes by the Hunsrück hills and the Nahe river itself. Soils are wonderfully diverse, combining volcanic, slate, quartzite and loess, which allows for nuanced expression in the finished wines. With a tradition dating back centuries, Nahe's winemakers deftly balance modern techniques with respect for terroir, resulting in sparkling wines that are both vibrant and precise.

For food pairings, Pleitz Nahe 2022’s lively bubbles and bright acidity make it an excellent aperitif, but the wine can also hold its own with a range of dishes. Classic matches include seafood platters—especially oysters or prawns—as the saltiness and texture highlight the wine's precision and freshness. Try it as well with regional specialities like Flammkuchen (Alsatian-style flatbread with crème fraîche, onions, and lardons) or delicate cold starters such as smoked trout from local rivers. Its structure also allows pairing with sushi, fresh goat's cheese salads, or even light poultry dishes with citrus accents.

To fully appreciate this sparkling white, serve well-chilled at 6-8°C. Use a tulip-shaped flute to capture both its fine bubbles and aromatic nuances. Avoid over-chilling to ensure that its intricate flavours and aromas are not suppressed. This wine can be enjoyed young for its vibrancy, but also benefits from a year or two of cellaring to gain further complexity.