Loimer Lenz Riesling 2016 Wine, 3 x 750ml

Vintage: A long winter led to a late but speedy bud break, thanks to some beautiful weather at the end of April and beginning of May. However, a hailstorm at the end of May resulted in yield losses in the Käferberg and Steinmassl vineyards. Flowering in mid-June was relatively on time. Unfortunately, a heat wave was followed by cold and damp conditions that strongly hindered pollination, especially of the main variety, Grüner Veltliner. The summer of 2013 was one of the five hottest summers in the last century. An extremely dry period in July was counteracted by rain in August - just in time for a very good ripening phase to begin. Ripening was a slow process, so calmness and patience were important. By the 8th of November, all of the wines, except for the sweet ones, were in the cellar. These were joined at the end of November by the Auslese and Beerenauslese wines. Vineyards: Situated 200-400 m above sea level, the climate of the Kamp Valley is characterised by cool nights and warm days, with a long, sunny autumn. The high summer temperatures are mitigated by the River Danube and the Waldviertel (forested area). Its long growing season and the difference in temperature between night and day, gives the grapes a chance to reach full ripeness and develop fine perfumes and flavours. Soils are mixed, and well-drained, with Gföhl gneiss (coarse-grained, metamorphic rock containing quartz, felspar and mica) subsoil. Vinification: The grapes were hand harvested and brought to the cellar in small crates. Depending on the quality, they were either whole-bunch pressed or crushed and then macerated for 4 - 12 hours, which helps to release more flavour. After careful fermentation, Lenz was matured on its fine lees in steel tanks for four months and then bottled in February 2014, so that its freshness and primary flavours would be retained as much as possible. Tasting Notes: A rather restrained nose of fresh apricot and white stone fruit develops into youthful lime perfumes. On the palate, this lively Riesling has a crunchy acidity and lots of texture. Light-bodied, the wine is balanced and has a medium to long finish.