Koehler-Ruprecht Riesling Pfalz Kallstadter Saumagen Kabinett Trocken 2023
95 POINTS: Wine Direct
94 POINTS: Vinous Media
93 POINTS: Heiner Lobenberg
Kallstadter Saumagen is undoubtedly one of the most famous vineyards in Germany – characterized by limestone, cool exposure, and a long history of great dry Rieslings.
Sourced entirely from the Saumagen Grand Cru site in the Pfalz (Koehler Ruprecht opted out of the VDP therefore even his Auslese trockens don't use the term GG even though technically they could be classified that way), left on skins for 12-24 hours before pressing and aged for up to 9 months in big old traditional barrels. All this lends the wine a patinated and textural feel. Densely packed with flavours of citrus and stonefruit, this is delightfully succulent, and very friendly bottle of wine. It’s got honeyed richness, but finishes dry. It comes from the village of Kallstadt in Pfalz, and it will put a smile on your face.
"On the nose, light citrus fruit, white peach, a hint of vineyard plum and green pear. Added to this are subtle herbal notes – lemon balm, fennel – as well as a hint of chamomile and fresh flowers. Underneath lies a cool, chalky minerality, very typical of the Saumagen. Fleshy and juicy on the palate, with clear fruit, but never overripe. The acidity is ripe, mild, and elegantly integrated, with no sharpness. The texture is creamier than many Kabinett wines, almost soft, but without heaviness. Ripe stone fruit, a hint of grapefruit, delicate herbal spice – all very fine, very balanced. This is classic Pfalz: a mouthful of wine, yet with lightness and playfulness. The finish is long, fresh, and characterized by citrus zest and chalky spice. Not a loud wine, but a quiet, dry Kabinett depth, precision, and lots of character. Very successful and very typical K-R."
- Heiner Lobenberg
Antonio Galloni described the wine as possessing "lovely balance and elegance" with limestone-driven salinity, dried mint, orange peel, chamomile notes and remarkable purity. He concluded that it is "absolutely beguiling" and worthy of cellaring.
Abv 12%