2021 Hattenheim Nussbrunnen Riesling dry VDP.Grosses Gewächs Weingut Prinz Rheingau 0.75l

2021 Hattenheimer Nussbrunnen VDP.Grosses Gewächs Riesling dry – Rheingau
single-vineyard wine

Origin:

Originally, viticulture was just a hobby for Fred Prinz - like many families in the region, his also cultivated a few vines. He actually wanted to study architecture or business administration, but then decided on viticulture at Geisenheim University . After several years of experience, including as cellar master of the Hessian State Wineries, he took the step into self-employment in 2004 and founded the Prinz Winery . The initial 6 hectares have now grown into a family winery of 11.5 hectares , and it has been a member of the VDP (Association of German Wine Producers) since 2005. The conversion to organic and biodynamic farming began in 2009 and was fully implemented in 2013. His son Florian Prinz , who already focused on sustainability and biodynamics during his studies at Geisenheim , has also been working in the business since 2018.

The Hattenheimer Nussbrunnen is one of the Rheingau's VDP (German Wine Region) Grosse Lage vineyards, yet at just 9.7 hectares, it is small and exclusive. It owes its name to a spring lined with walnut trees. The plot slopes gently south-southeast toward the Rhine and is protected from cold north winds. The soils of sandy loam, tertiary marl, and deep loess ensure a constant water supply even in hot summers—ideal conditions for precise, long-lasting Rieslings.

Expansion:

The grapes were selectively harvested at optimal ripeness, gently pressed directly, and fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness and precision. The wine was then aged on the full lees until bottling in April, which gave it additional texture, depth, and finesse . In keeping with the philosophy of bringing out the character of each site and always leaving room for the terroir-specific aromas.

Aroma & Taste:

On the nose, the Nussbrunnen 2021 displays radiantly clear fruit of white peaches, citrus, and yellow apple , accompanied by herbal notes and mineral spice . On the palate, it presents itself precisely, coolly, and elegantly , with a lively, taut acidity and a subtle saline note typical of the site. Despite its tautness, it never appears edgy, but rather harmonious and long on the finish .

Food recommendation:

This Riesling is a versatile food companion and can be served with grilled or fried fish, poultry in light sauces , Asian dishes with a subtle spiciness or mature goat cheese without worrying about going wrong.

Special features of the 2021 vintage in the Rheingau:

After three warm years, 2021 brought a classic Riesling vintage . A cool, wet summer reduced yields, but rigorous selection in October resulted in healthy, concentrated grapes. The wines exhibit taut acidity, cool aromas, and precise minerality —characteristics that make them particularly age-worthy . The 2021 Rheingau is thus considered an ideal Riesling vintage, with elegance, freshness, and power.

Conclusion:

The 2021 Hattenheim Nussbrunnen Riesling GG from Weingut Prinz is an authentic expression of its site : clear, profound, and characterized by a saline minerality. With its precise fruit, taut structure, and great elegance, it is one of the outstanding dry Rieslings of the vintage—a wine with aging potential and a place among the great classics of the Rheingau.