Sparkling Wines Rheingau Weingut Robert Weil - Riesling Extra Brut - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Weingut Robert Weil's Cuvée Riesling Extra Brut 2020 is a remarkable sparkling wine from the celebrated Rheingau region in Germany. Made exclusively from Riesling, this "blanc de blancs" cuvée showcases the purity and elegance for which both the grape and the house are renowned. 2020 was a vintage characterised by favourable conditions, resulting in grapes of particularly fine aromatics and focused acidity. The wine is crafted using the traditional method (Méthode Champenoise), bringing finesse, delicate mousse, and layers of complexity, while the extra brut dosage highlights the tension and mineral backbone that are hallmarks of top-quality Rheingau Riesling.

The Rheingau is one of Germany's most historic and prestigious wine regions, perched along the south-facing slopes of the Rhine river. This area benefits from a relatively mild climate, with ample sunlight and the river acting as a moderating influence, preventing frost and allowing for slow, even ripening of the grapes. The soils are mostly composed of slate, quartzite, and loess, imparting a distinctive minerality and vibrancy to the wines produced here. The Robert Weil estate, with its long-standing commitment to quality and sustainable viticulture, stands as one of the flagship producers of the region, particularly lauded for their work with Riesling.

This extra brut sparkling Riesling is a fantastic apéritif and matches beautifully with a variety of dishes. Its crisp acidity and fine bubbles make it an ideal partner for seafood—think fresh oysters, marinated prawns, or smoked trout. It pairs wonderfully with classic German fare such as Flammkuchen (a thin, crispy "German pizza" with crème fraîche, onions and bacon), or with sushi and sashimi, whose umami flavours are lifted by the wine's vibrancy. For a truly local touch, try it with Handkäse mit Musik, a tangy cheese specialty from Hesse.

To enjoy all the elegance and aromatic finesse of this sparkling wine, serve it well-chilled, at a temperature between 6-8°C. Pour gently into flutes or tulip glasses to preserve the delicate bead and capture the nuanced bouquet of citrus, white peach, and wet stone. This is a wine that offers immediate pleasure but will also develop beautifully over a few years in your cellar.