Krötenpfuhl Riesling Grosses Gewächs, Dönnhoff, Nahe 2021

A tricky 2023 vintage where the dedication of the grower had a big impact, the resultant wines are very good for those that did the graft. The warmest year on record, 2022 has produced some super results. The wines of 2021 are lighter in style and more aromatic with evident acidity compared with the previous two vintages. 2020 saw a warm summer, giving ripeness, while a prolonged harvest has given freshness and perfect quality fruit. The 2019s show wonderful rapier-like style, good weight and depth, yields are lower than the generous 2018 vintage. “A glorious vintage” said one grower, amongst many superlatives bandied about for 2018. For the first time in 10 years growers were truly happy with the quantity and the quality. The resulting wines are pure, rich, aromatic, and show a fine acidity. An early harvest following frost earlier in the season meant 2017 produced excellent light, fruity wines with great finesse. Weather conditions were tricky in 2016 and growers had to earn their stripes; the early season was wet, which reduced yields, followed by a hot summer with cool nights bringing excellent aromatics but with wines a little lighter than 2015. The brilliant 2015 vintage took place in ideal conditions and produced wonderfully ripe wines in all styles. Kabinetts are a bit short in quantity, but the dry wines especially are very approachable. 2014 saw a good crop of light, well-balanced wines with well-integrated acidity.