2022 Kiedrich Gräfenberg Riesling VDP Grosses Gewächs Robert Weil Rheingau 0.75l

2022 Kiedrich Gräfenberg Riesling VDP.Grosses Gewächs Robert Weil - Rheingau
single-vineyard wine

Origin:

The Robert Weil winery in Kiedrich was founded in 1875 , after Dr. Robert Weil, a former professor at the Sorbonne, had acquired his first vineyards in 1867. Within just a few decades, the estate had become one of the most famous Riesling producers in Germany ; its wines were served to European royal families and in international grand hotels. Today, Wilhelm Weil, great-grandson of the founder, runs the traditional VDP member estate. The centerpiece is the Kiedrich Gräfenberg , a prime site documented since 1109, whose name goes back to the Rhinegraves. The soils of phyllite and loess clay ensure optimal drainage, while the cool microclimate of the northeast slope promotes long ripening and aromatic complexity . The Gräfenberg is considered a classic Grand Cru terroir of the Rheingau.

Expansion:

The vines are planted at a density of around 6,000 vines per hectare and are consistently reduced to 45–50 hl/ha. Hand-harvesting in multiple rounds ensures maximum selectivity. After a gentle maceration period and, in some cases, a brief skin maceration, the must is fermented with spontaneous yeasts . Aging takes place in traditional oak barrels and stainless steel, combining freshness, precision, and longevity.

Aroma & Taste:

In the glass, the wine presents a light golden yellow . The nose reveals ripe citrus fruits, apricot, and yellow peach , complemented by herbal spice, floral notes, and a subtle mineral smokiness . On the palate, the Gräfenberg is powerful and punchy , yet precise and elegant . The texture is dense, supported by a fine, moderate acidity, typical of the warm vintage. The long, mineral-driven finish impressively combines maturity and elegance.

Food recommendation:

The Gräfenberg Riesling VDP.GG 2022 is a versatile food companion. Ideal with grilled turbot with lemon thyme , veal loin in a light herb sauce , or risotto with green asparagus . Mature Comté or mountain cheese also underscore the wine's structure and minerality.

Special features of the 2022 vintage in the Rheingau:

The 2022 Rheingau vintage was characterized by heat and drought. These conditions led to very varied yields regionally – from extremely low yields on steep, stony slopes to normal yields on deep soils. However, the Riesling proved resilient : the grapes reached high levels of ripeness while maintaining moderate alcohol levels and very well-integrated acidity . Overall, 2022 is considered a good vintage with aromatic, elegant, and market-compliant wines.

Conclusion:

The Kiedrich Gräfenberg Riesling VDP.GG 2022 combines the long tradition of a world-renowned vineyard with the signature of the modern Rheingau. It showcases the power and minerality of the Gräfenberg , while also demonstrating the balance and elegance for which Robert Weil is internationally acclaimed. A wine that impresses even when young, but can also age for decades—a beacon of the Rheingau and an ambassador of German Riesling culture.