During our "Battle of Rieslings" masterclass, the Roxheimer Höllenpfad Riesling 2023 from Weingut Dönnhoff truly shone with its distinctive "smoky" and mineral character, as well as its impressive structure. Robert Parker awarded it a score of 92 points!
The Donnhoff family has been based in Nahe for 250 years, but the big shift towards fame and ultimate recognition came in 1976, when Helmut Donnhoff, a "superstar" according to Robert Parker, who often gave him his 100 cents, took over the winery. Weingut Donnhoff is one of only three wineries in Germany to receive 100 points from Parker. On the other hand, the famous wine writer Hugh Johnson considers Donnhoff to be "absolutely committed to quality and a tremendous natural talent in winemaking". His son Cornelius, who learned all the secrets of Riesling with him, continues in his footsteps.
For Roxheimer Hollenpfad Riesling 2023 Weingut Donnhoff, the grapes come from the Roxheimer Höllenpfad vineyard (Erstes Gewächs category, i.e. premier cru) which has a unique red sandstone soil, which contributes to the wine's distinct mineral character. It is also known that Riesling has the unique ability to express the different terroirs in the final wine, with Cornelius making the most of it. The name "Höllenpfad" means "Path to Hell", most likely referring to its rugged terrain and reddish hue.
The wine ferments with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel tanks and old large oak barrels of 1200 litres. After that, the wine matures with its fine lees for several months, to acquire extra complexity. The result is expressive and spicy, with the subtle hints of flint that we love so much.
If you're a Riesling enthusiast, the Roxheimer Höllenpfad Riesling 2023 from Weingut Dönnhoff is a must-have for your collection!
