Date Tasted: 9/2022

Austrian wine laws, labels and information are similar to those of the neighbour Germany, thus complex, precise and based on grape ripeness (content sugar per 100g of grape must). Moreover, the appellation system (Protective Destination of Origin) is called DAC (Districts Austriae Controllatus) and is France-influenced. On top of all these, the most famous Austrian wine region, Wachau, has unique wine designations. The designations are an agreement between the region's producers to communicate the style of their wines in a better way. 

• Steinfeder wines are the lightest, with a maximum of 11,5% ABV. 

• Federspiel wines are in the middleweight category of 11,5-12,5% ABV.

• Smaragd wines are the richest, with a minimum of 12% ABV.

Wachau is located in the northeastern part of Austria. The vineyards lie on hillsides above the Danube, and the predominant varieties (above 90%) are Riesling and Gruner Veltliner. The climate is continental, but the diurnal temperature variability is extreme because of the combined effect of the Danube, Pannonian Plain on the east and the Alps on the west.

Appearance: Medium golden colour.

Nose: It is austere and has a perfectly ripe bouquet of lemon, orange peel, pear, grape and wet wool. 

Palate:  It is medium-bodied with high acidity and reveals mainly floral flavours and lemon. It has a nice balance and a medium-length aftertaste.

Hold: It is palatable now but will be better in 3-4 years.

Food Pairing: Pan-fried anchovies.

Score: 86/100

Name: Ried Loibenberg Loibner Riesling Smaragd

Producer: Weingut Knoll

Variety: Riesling

Vintage: 2020

Region: Qualitätswein, Wachau, Austria

Alcohol: 13%

Retail Price: 39€

Serving temperature: 10-12 C°

Drink it until 2029