Zahel An Amphora Riesling

The Zahel family winery has a long and proud history in Vienna and Alex very much preserves and builds upon that history but he’s also right up at the cutting edge of contemporary thinking for the region as well. He produces a number of different Gemischter Satz, his Wiener feels typically Austrian for example (yes, we did write that) whilst the Nussberg has distinctly more weight and feels more Burgundian in style. He also produces a truly enticing range of wines which started out as experimental bottlings but which now make up a regular, though individually very limited, part of his range.

Alex and the team are both organic and Demter biodynamic certified across all 95 parcels within the city limits of Vienna. They are also proud to announce that they will be one of the first European wineries to attain the regenerative farming certification, which takes into account the human impact of farming and its management to promote the regeneration of soil, water, air and biodiversity for the whole ecosystem.

Riesling,

Spontaneously fermented with natural yeasts in a handcrafted 320litre handmade Italian clay amphora. The wines are vinified biodynamically according to the Demeter guidelines with minimal intervention, and no fining or filtration. This stunning Riesling spends 12 months ageing on its fine lees which softens its edges and adds body. The purity of Riesling and imparted minerality from the amphora are a perfect match.

This Riesling is vinified in Amphora. Harking back to days of old, it's medium-bodied, limey with dried pineapple and nutty Braeburn hints. The acidity is so delicious and prominent that you'll be salivating from the smell alone.

Drink with pork tenderloin or mussels or quiche.