Vintage Character Weingut Rappenhof Herrenberg Riesling Grosses Gewächs 2018 is a striking expression of Rheinhessen’s celebrated terroir, showcasing the crystalline purity and layered complexity that define top German Rieslings. The 2018 vintage was marked by a warm, sunny growing season, producing ripe, concentrated fruit and wines of both depth and elegance. Widely regarded as an outstanding year in Rheinhessen, it yielded vibrant yet structured wines with remarkable balance.
Tasting Profile & Food Pairing Awarded 91 points by Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, this Grosses Gewächs opens with an alluring bouquet of white peach, lime zest, and delicate floral notes, accented by hints of wet slate and fresh herbs. On the palate, it is taut and mineral‑driven, with lively acidity carrying flavors of stone fruit, citrus, and a subtle saline edge, leading to a long, precise finish. Its refined structure and intensity make it a versatile partner for food, pairing beautifully with seared scallops in lemon beurre blanc, lightly spiced Cantonese steamed fish, or other dishes where freshness and minerality can shine.
Winery Background With roots dating back to 1604, Weingut Rappenhof is one of Rheinhessen’s most historic family estates, now under the stewardship of the Fleischer family’s 12th generation.
The estate is a proud member of the VDP, Germany’s association of top wine producers, and is renowned for its commitment to sustainable viticulture and terroir‑driven winemaking. The Herrenberg vineyard, with its loess‑clay soils and favorable microclimate, provides the foundation for wines of intensity and precision. Vineyard practices emphasize low yields, careful canopy management, and hand harvesting to ensure optimal fruit quality. In the cellar, the philosophy is one of minimal intervention, with gentle pressing and fermentation designed to preserve purity and minerality. This dedication to terroir and tradition ensures that each Grosses Gewächs bottling reflects the unique character of its site, distinguishing Rappenhof as one of Rheinhessen’s most respected producers of fine Riesling.