Katharina Wechsler ‘Kirchspiel’ Riesling Trocken, Rheinhessen, Germany 2021

Katharina Wechsler has emerged as one of the most compelling voices in modern Rheinhessen, farming organically and producing Rieslings that rival the region’s top estates. Her vineyards lie in the heart of Germany’s most celebrated zone for dry Riesling, with holdings in the grand crus Kirchspiel and Morstein, and calcareous parcels in Benn. Wechsler’s style is defined by precision, energy, and the unmistakable imprint of limestone—wines that are taut, mineral, and deeply expressive of place.

WINEMAKER: Katharina Wechsler

FARMING: Certified Organic

VARIETY: 100% Riesling

TERROIR: From a single parcel in the Kirchspiel GG vineyard, planted in 2001 on southeast-facing slopes at 160–180 meters. Soils are dominated by limestone marl, calcareous clay, and pockets of loess, making this one of the estate’s warmer yet still finely structured sites. The vineyard’s limestone spine is responsible for the wine’s tension, salinity, and chiselled mineral profile.

VINIFICATION: Whole-bunch maceration for 4 hours before pressing. Natural fermentation in stainless steel over 30 days at a maximum of 18°C, preserving brightness and finesse. Full malolactic fermentation occurs, contributing depth and softness to the wine’s linear structure.

AGING: Aged 10 months on the lees in stainless steel for added texture and aromatic complexity. First sulfur addition takes place after malolactic fermentation. Filtered but not fined.

TASTING NOTES: The 2021 Kirchspiel is taut, concentrated, and mineral-driven, showing notes of lime zest, green apple, white peach, and crushed limestone. The palate is electric and saline, with layers of citrus, herbs, and chalky depth. Long, mouthwatering, and deeply terroir-expressive—this is classic, limestone-grown Riesling with remarkable clarity and tension.

FOOD PAIRINGS: Ideal with shellfish, sushi, schnitzel, herbed chicken, spicy dishes, or fresh goat cheese.