2022 Hofgut Falkenstein Niedermenniger Herrenberg Riesling Spatlese Feinherb (Palm)

The Weber family of Hofgut Falkenstein have been making ultra-traditional Rieslings in the Saar district of the Mosel region since the mid-eighties; there they farm about 9 hectares in and around the villages of Niedermennig and Krettnach. Erich, the family winzer (winegrower in german) works alongside his middle son Johannes, who has joined him full-time in the vineyards and cellar in recent years. Ever since there has been more of a focus on Rieslings with residual sugar. The emphasis on their work is in the vineyard, where no pesticides, herbicides or fertilizers are employed and cover crops are grown to encourage biodiversity and, when necessary, competition with the vines for water. With their straightforward approach to winemaking the Webers craft light, distinctive and racy Rieslings displaying well-integrated acidity from their low yielding old vines, and are bottled traditionally by the cask.

Other Reviews....
The 2022er Niedermenniger Herrenberg Riesling Spätlese Feinherb Palm (the reference to this internal cask name is provided in small print on the label after the AP number) comes from different small parcels on the western side of the vineyard and was fermented down to off-dry levels of residual sugar. Slightly reductive at first, this quickly opens up to reveal beautiful notes of vineyard peach, Conference pear, minty herbs, and stone fruits. The wine proves incredibly creamy and refined on the delicately smooth and beautifully refined palate. The finish is more focused as zesty elements come through. Aromatic and fruity flavors are wrapped into fine spices and herbal elements in the after-taste. Drink 2027-2042.
94 points
Jean Fisch & David Rayer - Mosel Fine Wines