Wines Rheinhessen Gunderloch - Pettenthal Riesling Grosses Gewächs - 2019

Viniou Reviews

The 2019 Gunderloch Pettenthal Riesling Grosses Gewächs from Rheinhessen is a compelling example of German dry Riesling at its finest. Sourced from the renowned Pettenthal vineyard, a prestigious Grosses Gewächs (GG) site, this wine epitomises both the precision and expressive character Riesling can achieve in this terroir. The 2019 vintage brought cool nights and a long, even ripening period, resulting in wines that balance vibrant acidity with pronounced fruit and mineral intensity. The Pettenthal vineyard, celebrated for its steep slope overlooking the Rhine river and distinctive red slate soils, imparts a pronounced minerality and subtle smoky undertones to the Riesling grape. The wine undergoes selective hand harvesting, gentle pressing and fermentation with indigenous yeasts, followed by maturation on fine lees in stainless steel or large oak, preserving the wine’s purity and aromatic intricacy.

Rheinhessen, the largest wine region in Germany, has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent decades, with winemakers like Gunderloch leading the charge towards quality. The region benefits from a temperate continental climate, moderated by the Rhine, which protects vineyards and enables long hang-times for the grapes. Soils in Pettenthal are dominated by red slate and clay, which promote excellent drainage and add to the finesse and structure of the Riesling wines. The history of viticulture here dates back to Roman times, and today Rheinhessen is celebrated for its innovative spirit and diversity of Rieslings, spanning from lusciously sweet to beautifully dry expressions, such as this Grosses Gewächs.

Given its vivacious aromatics, bracing acidity, and stony minerality, this wine pairs superbly with refined dishes. Classic partners include delicate freshwater fish such as lightly poached trout, sashimi, or seafood risotto. The wine’s precision and cut work beautifully with mildly spiced Asian cuisine — think Vietnamese prawn salad or Thai basil chicken. For a regionally inspired pairing, try it with traditional Hessian dishes like Handkäse mit Musik (a local cheese served with onions and vinegar) or a simple roast pork with sauerkraut.

To fully enjoy its complexity and pure expression, serve the Gunderloch Pettenthal Riesling Grosses Gewächs at a cool 10-12°C. Decanting for thirty minutes before serving can help to open up its aromatic profile, particularly in its youthful phase. Over the next decade, this wine will gain even greater depth and nuance for those who choose to cellar it.