Rudi Pichler Terrassen Riesling Wachau 2022 750ml
Description
Rudi Pichler’s Terrassen (terraces) Grüner Veltliner represents a step up from his basic offering, sourced from the dramatic terraced vineyards that define the Wachau landscape. These ancient stone terraces, some dating back to medieval times, create unique microclimates and allow cultivation on impossibly steep slopes. The 2022 vintage opens with enhanced intensity and complexity—white pepper and green apple are more pronounced, accompanied by ripe stone fruit, citrus zest, and a distinctive mineral quality that speaks to the terraced sites. There’s a concentration to the aromatics that immediately identifies this as more serious Grüner Veltliner.
The palate delivers the depth and complexity that justifies the separate bottling, with fruit from these labor-intensive terraced sites showing exceptional character. The texture is notably richer, with weight and presence that speaks to lower yields and optimal sun exposure on the terraces. Green apple and citrus are enhanced by peach and subtle tropical notes, while the characteristic white pepper spice is more intense and persistent. What distinguishes Terrassen is the mineral expression—there’s a stony quality that seems to reflect the ancient terrace walls. The balance between richness and freshness is exemplary.
Pichler’s meticulous work on these challenging terraced sites is evident in the wine’s quality and complexity. As it opens in the glass, additional layers emerge—herbs, white flowers, and intensified mineral notes create growing interest. The finish is notably longer than the basic wine, with spice and stone notes that persist beautifully. This 2022 captures the terraced vineyards in an excellent vintage, showing both power and elegance. Perfect with richer fish preparations, white meats, or substantial vegetarian dishes, the Terrassen Grüner Veltliner demonstrates why these historic vineyard sites are so treasured. It’s a wine that tells the story of the Wachau’s dramatic landscape while delivering exceptional drinking pleasure.
- Producer
- Rudi Pichler
