Wines Rheinhessen Wagner-Stempel - Heerkretz Riesling Auslese - 2019

Wagner-Stempel’s 2019 Cuvée Heerkretz Riesling Auslese from Rheinhessen is a delightful expression of German sweet wine, epitomising the balance and elegance that this region can achieve. This wine, crafted in the Auslese style, is likely to offer pronounced sweetness along with a refined acidity, yielding a harmonious balance between luscious fruit and a refreshing finish. Since it is labelled “Cuvée Heerkretz”, it probably draws grapes from the Heerkretz vineyard, which is recognised for its mineral complexity. As a 2019 vintage, this bottle benefits from a year marked by an optimal combination of ripeness and freshness. While Riesling is the star variety in such wines, the precise blend may be nuanced, with the focus squarely on purity and precision of flavour.

Rheinhessen is Germany’s largest wine region and has, in recent decades, seen a renaissance led by quality-minded growers like Wagner-Stempel. The region’s rolling hills, predominantly limestone and clay soils, and relatively mild, sunny climate foster ripe yet vibrant grapes—weaving minerality and fruit in equal measure. Auslese wines, such as this, are the result of selective late harvesting where only the most concentrated berries are chosen, often kissed by noble rot (Botrytis cinerea), further deepening the aromatic complexity and sweetness.

Pairing this style of wine is a pleasure. Its pure, honeyed sweetness and high natural acidity make it remarkably versatile. Serve it alongside classic foie gras, creamy blue cheeses, or robust terrines to highlight its freshness and cut through richness. For a local touch, try it with apple strudel or a gently spiced rhubarb dessert. Exotic cuisine—think Thai or Vietnamese dishes with a touch of heat—also sings in concert with the Auslese profile, where sweetness balances spice and zest.

For an optimal experience, serve this wine lightly chilled, ideally between 8 and 10°C. This temperature preserves the vibrant fruit and floral notes while allowing all facets of its complex sweetness and mineral undercurrent to unfold. If opening young, a brief decant may also help the wine express its aromatic depth more fully.