Wines Nahe Dönnhoff - Niederhäuser Klamm Riesling Kabinett - 2021

Viniou Reviews

The 2021 Dönnhoff Niederhäuser Klamm Riesling Kabinett is a classic example of a sweet white wine from one of Germany's most revered estates. Crafted solely from the Riesling grape, it captures the varietal’s renowned aromatic complexity and electric acidity. The Kabinett designation signals a light, elegant style with refined sweetness, characteristic of selective early picking. The grapes come from the Niederhäuser Klamm vineyard, which boasts steep, mineral-rich slopes composed of volcanic porphyry and slate. These soils impart a remarkable tension and minerality to the wine, balancing the residual sugar and offering a striking sense of place, while the cool, wetter 2021 vintage enhances purity and lively acidity.

The Nahe region, though small, is celebrated for its diverse soil structure and unique microclimates. Situated between the Mosel and Rheinhessen, its south-facing slopes along the Nahe River benefit from moderate temperatures and sufficient rainfall, supporting a long, gentle ripening. The region holds a historic reputation for producing some of Germany’s most precise and expressive Rieslings. Dönnhoff, a producer with a longstanding history, is renowned for meticulous vineyard work and minimal intervention winemaking, which together yield wines of impeccable balance and terroir expression.

With its gentle sweetness and vivid acidity, this Kabinett Riesling pairs beautifully with lightly spiced Asian cuisine, such as Thai green curry or Szechuan dishes, where its freshness enlivens the palate and the sweetness counters subtle heat. Regional German pairings could include pork with apple compote or a classic onion tart, both of which are well supported by the wine’s fruit character and crispness. For cheese pairings, try it alongside young goat’s cheese or washed-rind cheeses with a touch of sweetness.

For optimal enjoyment, serve the Dönnhoff Niederhäuser Klamm Riesling Kabinett chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. This will preserve its delicate aromatics and accentuate its refreshing vivacity, allowing the interplay of fruit, minerality, and acid to shine through with each sip.