F.X. Pichler - Riesling Smaragd Loibenberg 2018

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F.X. Pichler Description

The Loibenberg is one of the steepest and most barren terraced vineyards in Loiben. This site is also one of the largest continuous individual vineyard sites in the Wachau, almost entirely south-facing, sun-blessed and warm. During the day the sun warms up the dry-stone terraces, and this retained heat is gradually released during the evening hours back into the vineyards.

The high-grade bedrock soil is geologically dominated by Gföhler gneiss, a transformation rock that consists of acidic, granite-like protoliths. The sandy-stony soils naturally provide ample water drainage, thus encouraging root growth. The soil also warms up rapidly during springtime and ensures early budding.

Erosion on the inclines has resulted in a beneficial mixture of calcareous loess sediment from the Ice Age, that in turn promotes progressive soil development by natural decalcification, which explains a minimal amount of carbonate present in the topsoil.

The name Loibenberg can be traced back to the year 1381, when the name “leub_n perig” was recorded.

James Suckling: 97 Points

This has a very alluring sheen of mineral aromas, across ripe peaches and papaya. The palate has such intensity with purity, bringing freshness and power to the finish. Wow-factor wine. Drink or hold.

Wine Enthusiast: 96 Points

Peach is edged with a note of tangerine on the subtle nose. The citrus lift continues on the generous palate where notions of candied orange peel come in. Zestiness tingles aromatically and shimmers with notions of Mandarin orange and tarter tangerine. All these flavors seem to emanate from an absolutely streamlined vein of concentrated, ripe citrus freshness. This is what lends drive and backbone, energy and vividness. Drink 2025–2045.