2022 Labeja Riesling dry Saltaren Wines Rheingau 0.75l

2022 Labeja Riesling dry Saltaren Wines - Rheingau
local wine

Origin:

The "Labeja" Riesling comes from the Rheingau's top vineyard site , Mittelheimer St. Nikolaus , just a few meters from the Rhine. The vines here are rooted in loess and calcareous loess-loam soils , which lend the wine its clear, mineral character. The name "Labeja" – Spanish for bee – is a tribute by winemaker Alex Saltaren Castro to the biodiversity and vitality of his vineyards, which he cultivates in a natural and sustainable manner.

Expansion:

Some of the grapes were destemmed before pressing to enhance the texture. The wine was aged in both stainless steel tanks and small 220-liter barrels , where it matured on its lees for approximately 12 months . This combination ensures clarity, freshness, and a fine, creamy depth.

Aroma & Taste:

The 2022 Labeja Riesling dry presents itself with slightly more yellow fruit and a rounder finish than the cool 2021. The nose reveals peach, ripe pear, and citrus zest , complemented by herbal notes and a light spice. On the palate, it is taut and juicy , with clear, but less sharp acidity than last year. A fine mineral grip , subtle tannins, and a touch of smoothness lend it length and structure.

Food recommendation:

A versatile accompaniment to dishes—excellent with grilled salmon with lemon thyme , poultry dishes in light sauces , or vegetarian dishes like zucchini risotto. It also pairs perfectly with mildly spicy Asian dishes or cheese variations .

Special features of the 2022 vintage in the Rheingau:

The 2022 year was marked by a hot, dry summer, which put pressure on the vines. Deep-rooted vines, such as those in Mittelheim, benefited from the calcareous subsoil, which retained water and thus ensured even ripening. The wines are more fruit-focused, with moderate acidity and a ripe, approachable style —less austere than 2021, but charming and juicy.

Conclusion:

The Labeja Riesling dry 2022 is the warmer, yellow-fruity sister of the 2021 vintage: stimulating, mineral, and with a delicate texture , yet consistently clear and precise in its style. It impressively demonstrates how the terroir of Mittelheim's St. Nikolaus produces elegant and characterful Rieslings even in a warm year. A wine that confirms Saltaren Wines ' claim to be a new voice in the Rheingau.