Joh. Bapt. Schäfer Riesling Burg Layer Schlossberg Erste Lage 2016

Germany is among the world’s best wine-growing countries. A long tradition and high-quality standards characterise viticulture here. German wines are known for their diversity and elegance. Different terroir create unique flavour profiles. Riesling occupies a special position in this regard. This grape variety embodies German wine culture. Winemakers place value on sustainability and innovation. This results in wines with character and depth. Regions offer individual peculiarities. From steep slopes to gentle hills, everything is represented. A particular treasure is the wine region of Nahe.

Nahe – Hidden Beauty

Nahe presents itself as a scenically appealing area. Gentle hills shape the panorama, while the Nahe river takes its course. Unique soil diversity makes the region special. Over 180 different soil types can be found here. Slate, quartzite and volcanic rock characterise the landscape. This diversity is reflected in the wines. Minerality and complexity are typical of Nahe. Vineyards stretch along the rivers Nahe, Glan and Alsenz. The climate is mild and favours the ripening process. Around 77 percent of the vineyard area is planted with white grape varieties. Riesling dominates with a share of 29.2 percent. The region offers a broad spectrum of wine styles. Elegant Rieslings meet fruity Burgundies. Nahe is also a popular travel destination. The Rhein-Nahe wine hiking trail invites you to explore. Historic wine towns and cultural highlights await visitors.

Joh. Bapt. Schäfer – Family-run Estate with Ambition

Joh. Bapt. Schäfer is a family-run estate with a long tradition. Sebastian Schäfer has been running the winery since 2002 as the fourth generation. Around nine hectares of vineyard area are cultivated. The focus is on the Riesling grape variety. Various style variants are vinified. Authentic, terroir-driven wines are the goal. Since 2023, the winery has been sustainably certified. Membership in the “Fair’n Green” association underlines this commitment. The vineyards are located in the municipalities of Laubenheim, Rümmelsheim and Dorsheim. Three significant sites shape the production. Dorsheimer Pittermännchen and Goldloch are classified as VDP.GROSSE LAGE. Burg Layer Schlossberg belongs to VDP.ERSTE LAGE. Each vineyard brings its own characteristics to the fore. Pittermännchen convinces with its mineral character and citrus notes. Goldloch impresses with opulent fruit and juicy structure. Schlossberg harmoniously combines fruit, minerality and spice.

»Joh. Bapt. Schäfer Riesling Burg Layer Schlossberg Erste Lage 2016« – A dry Riesling with Character

This Riesling from Nahe is a quality wine. The 0.75 l bottle presents itself elegantly and timelessly. Dark green glass protects the valuable contents. The label is predominantly white. A subtle, finely dotted pattern gives it modernity. The lettering is black, sans-serif and clearly structured. “JOH.BAPT.SCHÄFER.” is in large lettering on the label. Below are the vintage and origin designation. “VDP.ERLA GABER” can be found on the neck capsule. The wine reflects the high quality of the site.

This dry Riesling from 2016 has already reached maturity. The nose shows fine petroleum notes. Delicate floral hints complement the bouquet. A certain red fruitiness can be detected in the background. White peach and dark berries are recognisable. The palate presents the wine with a lot of melt. Harmonious acidity and green citrus fruit dominate. A touch of black tea is perceptible. The finish unfolds a distinct herbal spice. Clear slate minerality lingers for a long time. The wine was matured in traditional Stückfass and stainless steel. 12 hours of skin contact ensured aromatic diversity. Spontaneous fermentation and fine lees ageing until bottling.

Vintage 2016

The 2016 vintage was particularly favourable for Nahe. Mild weather and sufficient sunshine ensured optimal ripening. The grapes could ripen slowly on the vine. This led to concentrated aromas and elegant acidity. Wines from 2016 are characterised by their balance. They promise long ageing potential.

Bottle and Label

The bottle is classically and elegantly designed. Dark green glass optimally protects the wine. The label is minimalist and modern. White background and black lettering ensure good legibility. A subtle pattern gives the label a special touch. The overall impression is high-quality and appealing.

Culinary Accompaniment

This wine pairs wonderfully with fish and seafood. Delicate salmon or grilled dorado harmonise perfectly. It is also an excellent choice with poultry dishes. Fine chicken or duck breast go well. Vegetarian dishes with asparagus or mushrooms complement the wine. The acidity of the Riesling cuts through rich dishes. The wine is also a pleasure as an apéritif. The variety of aromas enlivens the palate. With a price of around €18, the wine offers excellent value for money. It is a recommendation for lovers of dry Rieslings.

Summary

»Joh. Bapt. Schäfer Riesling Burg Layer Schlossberg Erste Lage 2016« is an impressive wine. It combines tradition, innovation and terroir. The Burg Layer Schlossberg site brings unique aromas to the fore. The dry Riesling presents itself elegantly and complexly. Minerality, fruit and spice harmonise perfectly. The sustainable philosophy of the Joh. Bapt. Schäfer winery is remarkable. The wine is a pleasure for all the senses. It enriches every occasion and underlines the joy of life. A special wine that will be remembered for a long time.

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