Wines Rheinhessen Keller - Oberer Hubacker Monopol - 2022

Viniou Reviews

The Keller Oberer Hubacker Monopol 2022 from Rheinhessen is a superb example of a dry German white wine, renowned for its precision and expressiveness. Crafted by the esteemed Keller estate, the wine is produced from grapes cultivated exclusively in the monopole Oberer Hubacker vineyard, a prized parcel known for its ideal microclimate and distinctive soil composition. The 2022 vintage benefited from a relatively cool but balanced growing season, yielding fruit with remarkable aromatic clarity and a vibrant natural acidity. The vinification at Keller follows a minimalist philosophy: hand-picking, gentle pressing, and fermentation with indigenous yeasts. This approach preserves the nuance and purity of the region’s remarkable terroir, allowing the wine to develop layers of white peach, citrus peel, wet stone, and subtle floral notes, all anchored by a taut mineral structure and an invigorating finish.

Rheinhessen is Germany’s largest wine-growing region and one of its most dynamic, especially in recent decades as producers like Keller have helped to redefine its reputation. Nestled in the gentle, rolling hills between the Rhine and Nahe rivers, the region enjoys a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters, which are especially favourable for the slow ripening of white varieties. The soils of Rheinhessen are notably diverse, but the limestone-rich parcels like those of Oberer Hubacker provide a backbone of minerality and tension, resulting in wines that are both elegant and ageworthy. With a winemaking tradition stretching back to Roman times, Rheinhessen continues to balance history with innovation.

The crispness and depth of this wine make it a delightful partner for a variety of dishes. Classic pairings include fresh seafood—think grilled sea bass or scallops—while its minerality and verve also shine alongside sushi, sashimi, or subtly spiced Asian cuisine. For a regional touch, try it with German fare such as trout in Riesling sauce or a light veal schnitzel with lemon. Young cheeses like goat’s cheese or a mild Munster will complement its freshness and saline lift.

For optimal enjoyment, serve the Keller Oberer Hubacker Monopol 2022 well-chilled, ideally at 8–10°C. Decanting for thirty minutes can help open up its bouquet, especially in its youth. This wine will also benefit from a few years of cellaring, rewarding patience with even greater complexity and harmony.