The 2018 Niederhäuser Hermannshöhle Riesling Auslese from the renowned Dönnhoff estate is a remarkable example of finely crafted sweet wine from the Nahe region of Germany. While precise details about the blend may not be entirely specific, it is almost certainly composed predominantly, if not exclusively, of Riesling, the signature grape of both the estate and the broader Nahe area. Auslese denotes a style in German wine law that is produced from carefully selected, late-harvested berries, often resulting in wines of substantial intensity and natural sweetness, balanced by racy acidity. The Hermannshöhle vineyard is famed for its slate and volcanic soils, contributing to a complex mineral backbone and impressive longevity. In the glass, a wine like this typically offers a vibrant bouquet of stone fruits, citrus peel, honeycomb, and delicate floral notes, complemented by a saline mineral edge.
Nahe is one of Germany’s smaller wine regions, nestled between the Mosel and Rheinhessen. Its distinct topography and patchwork of volcanic and slate soils, coupled with a temperate climate, allow for nuanced, expressive and elegant Rieslings. The region does not suffer from the intensity of river fogs like the Mosel, often granting the grapes optimal late-season ripening. Dönnhoff stands out as a benchmark producer here, with deep roots and a long-standing reputation for crafting world-class wines that elegantly showcase the characteristics of each individual vineyard.
Pairing a luscious, late-harvest Nahe Riesling Auslese calls for thoughtful culinary accompaniments, as the wine’s pronounced sweetness and shimmering acidity work admirably alongside rich or lightly spicy dishes. Classic pairings from the region might include foie gras or duck liver pâté, where the wine’s freshness counters the decadent texture of the dish. Blue cheeses such as Roquefort, or spicy Asian cuisine—think Peking duck or Thai green curry—find harmony with the interplay between sweetness and acidity. Alternatively, fruit-based desserts, particularly those featuring orchard fruits or citrus, will echo the wine’s flavours beautifully.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this Auslese slightly chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. As this is a wine capable of graceful ageing, a moment of aeration after pouring can help it unfurl its full aromatic complexity. Should you wish to cellar it, know that the best examples from Dönnhoff’s Hermannshöhle can develop dazzlingly for decades.
