2024 Emrich-Schonleber, Riesling, Estate Trocken, Nahe

Emrich-Schonleber is a small family-owned estate situated on 20 hectares of land in the western reaches of the Nahe. The estate dates to the mid-18th century but it wasn’t until the 1970’s and 1980’s that they converted away from mixed agriculture to focus exclusively on wine growing. Since that time, they have risen in prominence and are now counted among the most important properties in the Nahe. Frank and Werner Schönleber apply the same technical rigor to this estate bottling as their Grosses Gewächs, utilizing hand-harvesting and spontaneous fermentation to anchor the wine in its agricultural reality. The structural framework is derived from the steep, weathered slopes of Monzingen, where blue slate and quartzite soils ensure high mineral concentration and a sharp, saline grip. Vinification in stainless steel maintains a lean, precise frame, resulting in a mid-palate density that balances the vintage’s intense structural tension. This is a transparency-driven expression of the Nahe that emphasizes geological persistence and technical precision over primary aromatics. This entry level Riesling is drawn entirely from estate vineyards and beautifully displays ripe citrus and white florals on the nose. The palate is juicy and dry with peppy acidity and a smooth finish. Lovely Riesling and a beautiful entry to this great property.