Dönnhoff, Riesling Trocken, Tonschiefer, Nahe, Germany, 2022

Producer Profile

Stretching from Niederhausen to Schloßböckelheim, the majestic landscapes of the Nahe Valley have captured their love and attention for more than 250 years. The first official mention of the Dönnhoff name dates back to 1761; the family‘s own history book details the early flowering of 1781 and the bumper grape harvest of 1784. Helmut Dönnhoff‘s grandfather was the man that first started the estate‘s success, focussing his attention on planting Riesling vines in prized vineyard areas, and by the 1920s was filling his wines into bottles and selling the finest of them by their individual vineyard names. Then came Helmet's son, Hermann Jr. founder of their “Oberhäuser Brücke” site, and responsible for constructing the press house in 1936 and the estate‘s first cellar space.

Stretching from Niederhausen to Schloßböckelheim, the majestic landscapes of the Nahe Valley have captured their love and attention for more than 250 years. The first official mention of the Dönnhoff name dates back to 1761; the family‘s own history book details the early flowering of 1781 and the bumper grape harvest of 1784. Helmut Dönnhoff‘s grandfather was the man that first started the estate‘s success, focussing his attention on planting Riesling vines in prized vineyard areas, and by the 1920s was filling his wines into bottles and selling the finest of them by their individual vineyard names. Then came Helmet's son, Hermann Jr. founder of their “Oberhäuser Brücke” site, and responsible for constructing the press house in 1936 and the estate‘s first cellar space.

Viticulture

The sloping vineyards of the Leistenberg are characterised predominantly by clay slate soils. This dry, blackish-grey slate is perfect for producing superbly elegant wines. The characterful dry Riesling wines from these soils are therefore named after this ancient rock. Tonschiefer translates as clay slate! Vines average 25 to 30 years old.

Winemaking

100% selective hand harvest. Fermented and matured in stainless steel vats and large oak barrels.

Tasting Note

Aromas of green apple, lemon zest, and white blossoms are complemented by subtle herbal notes and a pronounced slatey minerality. On the palate, it offers a structured, medium-bodied experience with vibrant acidity and a long, stony finish.

Food Matching

Seafood such as grilled prawns or seared scallops. It also enhances the flavours of asparagus risotto and citrus-dressed salads with goat cheese.