Tegernseerhof, Riesling Smaragd, Loibenberg, Wachau, Austria, 2022

Producer Profile

Tegernseerhof has a history that dates back over 1,000 years, with 25 hectares of vineyards located on the finest slopes of the picturesque Wachau region in Austria, formed by the meandering Danube River.

Today the estate is owned and run by Martin Mittelbach, whose family have been managing Tegernseerhof for 5 generations. Inspired by ancient winemaking traditions, Martin is passionate about producing the finest expressions of vineyard and grape variety, whether Grüner Veltliner or Riesling, each wine has its own unique personality.

Viticulture

Located on the finest stone terraced slopes of the picturesque Wachau region in Austria, formed by the meandering Danube River. The climate is very warm, and the light soil has a low water holding capacity which stresses the vines. Loibenberg has been known as a wine mountain since 1253. It is thought to be Austria’s first vineyard. The mountain itself is much older. Nature took over 500 million years to turn its rock to gneiss. The Riesling grapes grow on the topmost stone terraces. This allows the estate to leave them on the vine to develop a subtle fruit and a fine flavour.

Winemaking

Martin practices traditional winemaking. Hand harvesting grapes and then fermented in old wood. Matured in old wood to preserve minerality in the wines.

Tasting Note

Concentrated, yet precise—juicy stone fruit framed by taut acidity, with compelling saline minerality throughout. Its elegance is laced with vibrant citrus and a nervy spine, leading to a lingering, mouthwatering finish. Made to both enjoy now and cellar into graceful maturity over decades.

Food Matching

Fatty fish like pan-roasted trout or salmon, soft cheeses (goat’s cheese, young gouda).

Awards