Stagard Riesling "Steiner Schreck" 2020
"When Urban and Dominique Stagård took over the family estate in 2006, they set straight to reimagining its potential. Their vision had four elements: reclaiming obscure vineyards, reexamining the possibilities of iconic sites, farming based on a close study of soils, and making wine by drawing on knowledge and techniques of the past. Some of these approaches—such as the use of Steinzeug, or thick-walled stoneware fermentation vessels—are so arcane their rediscovery feels more like innovation. Riesling, the variety the Stagårds say “speaks most to us,” is their clear focus. Both varieties are grown organically (certified since 2009) on 17 hectares of exceptional sites scattered around Stein and in the Wachau. They rely on native yeast fermentations and minimal sulfur, as well as long aging on the fine lees to promote texture and protect against oxidation. They also embrace skin maceration and stem inclusion when they feel this contributes to site expression. “Above all,” says Urban, “we trust in time.” This allows each wine to find its own individual rhythm and equilibrium. These are true wines of terroir – crystalline, tense, and intellectually satisfying, not to mention delightful to drink.
The Schreck is the steepest of all of the Krems Valley sites and sits at approximately 320 meters above sea level. Everything must be done by hand here and the yields are naturally low. The Schreck is the most “German-like” of the range, displaying apples, stone fruit and a hint of apricot with a very taught, linear structure.
Fermented spontaneously, with berries, in stainless steel after 48 hour maceration. Aged 12 months in stainless, 10 months on gross lees and berries."