Weingut Prager Wachstum Bodenstein Riesling Smaragd 2023
Weingut Prager Wachstum Bodenstein Riesling Smaragd 2023
The 2023 Riesling Wachstum Bodenstein Smaragd is on the Hochseiber site, planted in 1990 with the most varied selection of Riesling genetics of 25 different clones from across Germany, Alsace and Wachau. The site reaches up to 460 meters, which was difficult to ripen at the time of planting. The breezy freshness of fragrant and aromatic citrus features tangerine, bergamot and grapefruit. The palate is milder than the nose suggests but is defined by a fine-boned smoothness, translucent stoniness and finesse. Zestiness at the core is key, carrying the essential and eternal citrus nature of Riesling forward. The finish is lovely, long and delicious. (Dry) - By Anne Krebiehl MW on May 2024
The Vineyard: Wachstum, meaning “Growth” or “Cru,” is a nursery for Toni Bodenstein who planted 25 different nursery clones of Riesling 460 meters in elevation at the top of Hinter Seiber. When planted in 1990, the goal of Wachstum Bodenstein was to preserve biodiversity. First produced in 1993, it is now one of Prager’s most sought-after wines
"The wine year began with cool, humid weather, which delayed the bud break. From mid-may the sun came out continuously and provided a boost of vegetation. Thanks to the rainfall in spring, the vines were optimally supplied with water, only the hot summer months produced very dry conditions. The late flowering indicated a late harvest year. In August, the subsequent summer temperatures accelerated the ripening of the grapes. On August 26, a hailstorm destroyed parts of the grapes in Wösendorf, Joching, Weissenkirchen and partially the Spitzer Graben. Dry and windy weather conditions allowed the injured berries to dry well. These were removed by precise handwork.
In the eastern Wachau, harvest started in the second week of September with dry and warm summer temperatures. Large maturity differences between the individual vineyards were recognizable and strongly influenced by the vineyard management. As the harvest progressed in the eastern part of the Wachau, the ripening phase of the grapes in the west was delayed, so that harvest in Spitz was not completed until the beginning of November."
~ Vinea Wachau on the 2023 growing season and resulting harvest
