2018 Graach HIMMELREICH Riesling Grosses Gewächs Q.b.A. trocken Willi Schaefer, Mosel-Saar-Ruwer

Mosel Fine Wines - 2018 Graach HIMMELREICH Riesling Grosses Gewächs Q.b.A. trocken, Willi Schaefer

The 2018er Himmelreich GG, as it is written on the main part of the label, comes from fruit picked in the Himmelreich and Stablay parts of the vineyard, and was fermented spontaneously and aged on its gross lees in traditional Fuder cask until June 2019. It offers a stunningly complex nose made of lemongrass, mirabelle, grapefruit, herbs, wet stone, and delicately earthy spices. The wine proves stunningly playful and balanced on the light-footed but intense palate. It leaves a superbly engaging feel of fresh fruits, minerals, and herbs pepped up a most delicate touch of tickly acidity in the long and suave finish. The after-taste is all about airiness as more fruits, minerals, and refreshing elements add depth to the experience. This is a stunning expression of airy dry Mosel Riesling. What a huge success! 2023-2033. Okt. 2019

Vinous - 2018 Graach HIMMELREICH Riesling Grosses Gewächs Q.b.A. trocken, Willi Schaefer

A “sunny,” Himmelreich-typical nose and palate feature grapefruit and lemon tinged with smoky black tea and underlain by wet stone. There is an impressive combination here of midpalate density with alcoholic levity (at 11.5%). The finish lingers with a delightful sense of clarity and animation such as can by no means be taken for granted in 2018. A slightly resinous herbal note, along with piquancy of citrus seed, serves for invigorating counterpoint. - David Schildknecht, Nov. 2020