Dönnhoff doesn't need much of an introduction and is one of Germany's most recognized names in wine—the maestro of the Nahe terroir. They were among the first to shift attention from the Mosel to the Nahe, showcasing just how expressive and precise this region can be. The 2023 Dönnhoff Oberhäuser Brücke Riesling Spätlese is a benchmark wine from their 1.1-hectare monopole vineyard, rooted in grey slate soils along the Nahe River, which moderates the microclimate and allows for slow, even ripening—ideal for late-harvest styles. Fermented with native yeasts and raised in large, old German oak casks, the 2023 vintage combines excellent freshness with ripe, concentrated fruit, perfectly suited to the estate's acid-driven, age-worthy style. Early impressions show white peach, lime zest, and crushed slate, with a shimmering balance of tension and finesse. This is a classic Spätlese from one of Germany’s greatest producers and a vintage not to miss, especially at this great low price!
James Suckling 98 points! "When worlds colide. The tension between the cool, dark side (think Darth Vader) and the enormous brightness of the stone fruit (think Luke Skywalker) makes this astonishing riesling Spatlese extremely compelling. The most beautiful pineapple and grapefruit aromas. Fabulous freshness at the stunningly straight and pure finish. Drink or hold."
Vinous 96 points! "The 2023 Riesling Oberhäuser Brücke Spätlese is from a geologically complex site that has loess, loam, shale, weathered sandstone and volcanic formations, the moderating influence of the river also means that botrytis is possible. Spätlese and Auslese are harvested together but selected in the vineyard. Golden and gently botrytised fruit goes into Spätlese. This charms with a touch of crushed blackcurrant foliage and ripest, juiciest Reine Claude plum, all edged with citrus. Beautifully taut, vividly concentrated, yet no heaviness, just light-footed, dancing, playful and oh so balanced. (sweet)"
2023 Dönnhoff Oberhäuser Brücke Riesling Spätlese
2023 Dönnhoff Oberhäuser Brücke Riesling Spätlese
Dönnhoff doesn't need much of an introduction and is one of Germany's most recognized names in wine—the maestro of the Nahe terroir. They were among the first to shift attention from the Mosel to the Nahe, showcasing just how expressive and precise this region can be. The 2023 Dönnhoff Oberhäuser Brücke Riesling Spätlese is a benchmark wine from their 1.1-hectare monopole vineyard, rooted in grey slate soils along the Nahe River, which moderates the microclimate and allows for slow, even ripening—ideal for late-harvest styles. Fermented with native yeasts and raised in large, old German oak casks, the 2023 vintage combines excellent freshness with ripe, concentrated fruit, perfectly suited to the estate's acid-driven, age-worthy style. Early impressions show white peach, lime zest, and crushed slate, with a shimmering balance of tension and finesse. This is a classic Spätlese from one of Germany’s greatest producers and a vintage not to miss, especially at this great low price!
James Suckling 98 points! "When worlds colide. The tension between the cool, dark side (think Darth Vader) and the enormous brightness of the stone fruit (think Luke Skywalker) makes this astonishing riesling Spatlese extremely compelling. The most beautiful pineapple and grapefruit aromas. Fabulous freshness at the stunningly straight and pure finish. Drink or hold."
Vinous 96 points! "The 2023 Riesling Oberhäuser Brücke Spätlese is from a geologically complex site that has loess, loam, shale, weathered sandstone and volcanic formations, the moderating influence of the river also means that botrytis is possible. Spätlese and Auslese are harvested together but selected in the vineyard. Golden and gently botrytised fruit goes into Spätlese. This charms with a touch of crushed blackcurrant foliage and ripest, juiciest Reine Claude plum, all edged with citrus. Beautifully taut, vividly concentrated, yet no heaviness, just light-footed, dancing, playful and oh so balanced. (sweet)"
