Emrich-Schonleber 'Monziger Frühlingsplätzchen' Riesling Spätlese, Nahe, Germany 2022

Emrich-Schönleber ‘Monziger Frühlingsplätzchen’ Riesling Spätlese, Nahe, Germany 2022

Emrich-Schönleber is one of Germany’s leading Riesling estates, known for crystalline precision and an unwavering focus on the dramatic slate and quartzite soils of the Nahe. The Frühlingsplätzchen vineyard—perched above the village of Monzingen—is famed for producing some of the region’s most floral, elegant, and delicately mineral Rieslings. In 2022, the site delivered a Spätlese of remarkable clarity, balancing ripe fruit with the cool finesse that defines this iconic hillside.

WINEMAKER: Werner & Frank Schönleber

FARMING: Sustainable; hand-harvested

VARIETY: 100% Riesling

TERROIR: From the steep, south-facing slopes of Monziger Frühlingsplätzchen, a Grand Cru–level site composed of red slate and quartzite. These soils store heat while providing excellent drainage, yielding Rieslings that are perfumed, filigreed, and marked by precise mineral tension.

VINIFICATION: Hand-picked at Spätlese ripeness, gently pressed, and fermented with native yeasts in stainless steel to preserve purity. Residual sweetness is balanced by naturally high acidity.

AGING: Rested in stainless steel before bottling to maintain freshness and highlight the vineyard’s aromatic profile.

TASTING NOTES: The 2022 Spätlese is lifted and pure, with aromas of white peach, apricot blossom, and citrus oil accented by cool minerality. The palate is silky and refined, offering a delicate interplay of ripe stone fruit, subtle sweetness, and vibrant acidity. The finish is long, floral, and shimmering with slate-driven tension.

FOOD PAIRINGS: Excellent with spicy Asian dishes, roast duck, soft cheeses, or fruit-driven desserts. Also a beautiful partner for lightly spiced seafood.