Prager Klaus Riesling Smaragd 2020

Drink now or cellar for up to 15 years. Serve chilled.

With a history that dates back at least to 1302, Weingut Prager is one of the oldest and most-respected wineries in Austria’s Wachau region. The estate has an impressive reputation for single vineyard Riesling and Gruner Veltliner largely thanks to the work of Toni Bodenstein who has spent years studying the region’s geology and biodiversity. Wherever possible he adopts a minimal intervention approach which is summed up by the motto “Vom Stein zum Wein” or “from rocks to wine”.

In total the property has 17.5 hectares which are split between Riesling and Gruner Veltliner planted on very steep terraces. This magnificent bottling is a dry wine which is labelled as Smaragd by members of the Vinea Wachau organization which aims to promote local wines. All of the fruit is harvested by hand and fermented spontaneously in stainless steel tanks to showcase the natural freshness and aromatic character of the variety.

According to Bodenstein, Klaus is his most robust and powerful Riesling with plenty of acidity and structure thanks to the cool nights and the long ripening period. The nose is dominated by zingy grapefruit, lemon zest, and green apple, while the first sip reveals a mouthwatering freshness, steely minerality, and a pure, clean finish. Brilliant served as a classy aperitif or partner for fresh seafood, grilled fish, or spicy Asian dishes.