Dönnhoff’s 2013 Niederhäuser Hermannshöhle Riesling Auslese is a benchmark example of sweet white wine from the Nahe, crafted by one of Germany’s most celebrated producers. As an Auslese, this wine is sourced from carefully selected, late-harvested grapes—potentially marked by perfectly balanced botrytis influence—and showcases all the density and tension that this rare style can achieve. The vineyard of Hermannshöhle is renowned for its complex interplay of slate, volcanic rock, and loess clay, imparting a striking mineral backbone to the wine. The palate is likely to offer luscious notes of ripe stone fruits, citrus zest, honeysuckle, and a vibrant yet balanced acidity that carries both delicacy and depth. Vintage 2013 in the Nahe is well remembered for its fresh precision and poise; wines from this year typically ally expressive fruit with an underlying sense of energy.
The Nahe region, nestled between the Moselle and Rheingau, is favoured with a varied topography and a mild, continental climate. Its patchwork of soils in close proximity means that even small parcels can yield quite distinctive wines, with Nahe Rieslings frequently admired for their aromatic lift and mineral purity. Despite being smaller and less internationally famous than some neighbouring regions, Nahe’s tradition of quality, especially in sweet styles, is now rightly held in high regard—due in large part to producers like Dönnhoff, who have championed precise vineyard management and selective hand-harvesting.
For food pairing, an Auslese of this calibre is a marvellous match for a range of dishes. Try it with rich blue cheeses such as Roquefort or Stilton, or highlight its vibrancy alongside classic German fare like pâté or duck liver mousse. It excels with fruit desserts—think tarte tatin, poached pears, or apple strudel—as well as lightly spiced Asian cuisine where its freshness acts as a perfect foil to aromatic spices.
Serve well chilled, ideally at 8-10°C, to best appreciate its aromatic complexity and superb balance between sweetness and acidity. For optimal enjoyment, use medium-sized glasses and allow the wine to unfurl slowly in the glass. This half-bottle format is perfectly sized for an indulgent pairing or special occasion.
