Wines Rheinhessen Wagner-Stempel - Höllberg GG - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Wagner-Stempel's Höllberg GG 2021 from the Rheinhessen region is a remarkable dry white wine that showcases both the estate's meticulous craftsmanship and the expressive character of one of Germany's most distinguished terroirs. This Grosses Gewächs (GG), or Grand Cru, is crafted primarily from Riesling, a variety revered for its ability to transmit the nuances of soil and climate. The Höllberg vineyard is renowned for its south-facing slopes, rich in porous limestone and clay, offering the grapes an ideal balance of sun exposure and water retention. The 2021 vintage is celebrated for its cool growing season, which allowed for a slow and steady ripening of the fruit, preserving an exceptional freshness and tension. Vinification at Wagner-Stempel is marked by gentle pressing and fermentation using indigenous yeasts, followed by maturation on fine lees to enhance texture and aromatic complexity.

Rheinhessen, nestled between the Nahe and Rhine rivers, is Germany’s largest and one of its most dynamic wine regions. With a mild climate tempered by river influences, and a diversity of soils ranging from loess to limestone, the area is ideal for cultivating expressive white wines, especially Riesling. Historically regarded as a bulk wine region, Rheinhessen has undergone a renaissance over the past two decades, driven by innovative producers such as Wagner-Stempel, who focus on quality and terroir-side differentiation. The Höllberg vineyard sits among the region’s most respected sites, contributing to the area’s reputation for world-class dry whites.

This Höllberg GG, with its vibrant grapefruit, white peach and flinty minerality, pairs beautifully with refined seafood dishes like scallops in a citrus beurre blanc, or simply grilled turbot. It also complements regional German fare: think roast pork belly with sauerkraut or a tart Flammkuchen with crème fraîche and onions. The wine’s racy acidity and elegant structure make it an excellent match for Asian-inspired dishes featuring ginger or lemongrass as well.

To fully appreciate its aromatic finesse and minerality, serve this wine chilled but not too cold, ideally at 10-12°C. A large, tulip-shaped glass will help convey its layered bouquet and lengthy, precise finish. Decanting for 30 minutes before serving can further enhance the wine’s complexity, especially in its youth.