2014 Vom Stein, Riesling Smaragd dry Nikolaihof Wachau 0.75l

2014 Vom Stein Riesling Smaragd Nikolaihof - Wachau
single-vineyard wine

Origin:

The "Vom Stein" vineyard in Mautern is a historic parcel within the Silberbichl vineyard and is one of the most distinctive Riesling sites in the Wachau. The 4.2-hectare site extends north-northeast up the slope, from 209 to 237 meters above sea level. Its soils consist of layers of silt, loess, clay, and Danube gravel – a mineral-rich subsoil that lends the wines freshness, flavor, and precision.

The Nikolaihof itself is considered the oldest winery in Austria, with roots dating back to Roman times. Owned by the Saahs family since 1894, it has been operating uncompromisingly biodynamically since 1971. Officially certified since 1998, it was the first winery in Austria to be Demeter-certified.

Expansion:

The grapes were hand-picked, fermented spontaneously with the vineyard's own yeasts, and then aged on the full lees for 4.5 years in large, old oak barrels . Bottled unfiltered with minimal sulfurization, the wine was bottle-aged and released as an "archive release" in 2024 —a prime example of Nikolaihof's slow-paced, tradition-conscious vinification.

Taste & Aroma:

The nose opens with rich, ripe fruit : juicy apricot and yellow quince , accompanied by citrus balm and a hint of fresh mint . Fine yeast notes intertwine with ethereal herbs , hints of bergamot , and the clear spice of crushed rock . On the palate, the wine is silky and profound . Despite its creamy density, it retains a taut minerality , cool herbal freshness, and a salty length. A Riesling that is both powerful and relaxed , invigorating yet soothing, with a long, salty finish.

Food recommendation:

Ideal with hearty dishes with aromatic seasoning, such as grilled zander with herb butter, braised veal cheeks , roast chicken with lemon dip , or mature mountain cheese and other savory cheeses. Decant before enjoying and serve in large glasses.

Special features of the 2014 vintage in the Wachau:

2014 was a challenging year in the Wachau: Early bud break was hampered by a cool, changeable summer. From August onward , heavy rainfall and warm, humid conditions led to significant botrytis pressure. Only through strict hand-picking and selection could top-quality grapes be ensured. Yields were significantly lower, but the remaining grapes were highly concentrated and of outstanding aromatic density . This combination of late ripening, intensive selection, and low yields shaped the unique character of the vintage.

Conclusion:

The 2014 "Vom Stein" Riesling Smaragd dry is an emotional, captivating single-vineyard wine with the unmistakable Nikolaihof signature. It combines depth, minerality, and herbal-spicy freshness with an almost soothing harmony. A wine to sit back and enjoy , demonstrating just how timeless a great Wachau Riesling can be.