Wines Nahe Dönnhoff - Norheimer Kirschheck - 2018

The 2018 Dönnhoff Norheimer Kirschheck from the Nahe region in Germany is a remarkable dry white wine, crafted by one of the country’s most esteemed producers. While detailed information on the precise grape variety is not fully confirmed here, the vineyard site “Norheimer Kirschheck” is historically celebrated for its excellence in Riesling. The wine’s style typically reflects elegance and clarity, showing crystalline fruit tempered by vibrant acidity. The 2018 vintage, marked by warm and sunny conditions, should give this wine concentrated aromas—think ripe stone fruits, subtle citrus and perhaps a whisper of floral or herbal nuance, with an underlying mineral character shaped by the stony soils of the Nahe.

The Nahe region itself is something of a hidden gem within German wine country. Lying between the Mosel and the Rheingau, it experiences a moderate climate influenced by river valleys and protection from surrounding forests. The soils are highly diverse, ranging from volcanic origins to sandstone and slate, giving an extraordinary depth and individuality to the wines. Riesling, if dominant here, produces wines of poise, structure, and expressive minerality, with a history of cultivation in these hillsides dating back centuries. Dönnhoff has played a leading role in raising the profile of the Nahe internationally, particularly with single-vineyard bottlings such as this.

For food pairings, the vibrant freshness and mineral backbone of this wine make it a superb match for a wide range of dishes. Enjoy it alongside classic German fare like trout with herb butter or zander fillet, or look further afield with lightly spiced Asian cuisine, seafood risotto, or goat’s cheese salad. The wine's poised acidity will cleanse the palate when enjoyed with creamy dishes or smoked fish, making it quite versatile at the table.

To appreciate its precision and complexity, serve the wine at 8-10°C. If possible, decant for a brief time to allow the bouquet to unfold, and enjoy in good company over the coming years, as top dry wines from sites like Kirschheck continue to develop beautifully in bottle.