At a glance

Producer

Schafer-Frohlich

Region

Nahe, Germany

Grape variety

Riesling

Wine type

White

Body

Light-bodied and Crisp

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$70-$90

Tasting profile

Crystalline citrus, green apple, slate minerality, and subtle petrol notes starting to emerge.

Evolution: Develops richer honeyed notes, more pronounced minerality, hints of dried lime and wet stone over years.

At peak: Complex layering of citrus, petrol, wet stone, and saline minerality with elegant texture.

Structure

Acidity

High, sharp and vibrant

Tannins

None (typical for Riesling)

Alcohol

12.5-13%

Aging potential

Excellent, strong potential for 15+ years due to high acidity and quality terroir

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2044

Optimal window

2024 to 2047

Current status

Youthful, developing complexity

Current condition

Fresh acidity with unfolding mineral and citrus notes

The 2019 vintage in Nahe was very strong for Riesling, offering refreshing acidity and concentration. The Kupfergrube GG parcel is a steep, well-drained slope with volcanic slate soils that foster exceptional mineral expression. Given the producer’s renown and style, this wine will develop superb complexity over 8-15 years post-vintage, making the peak window around 2027-2032.

Food pairing

Ideal with seafood (especially oysters, scallops), sushi, white fish, pheasant, and dishes with citrus or herbal notes. Also pairs well with Asian cuisine, particularly dishes with ginger and lemongrass.

Serving

Serving temperature

10-12°C / 50-54°F

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Schafer-Frohlich employs organic viticulture without herbicides or systemic pesticides. Minimal intervention in the cellar with natural yeasts, reductive winemaking to preserve purity. Use of solar panels and water conservation techniques at the estate.

The producer has a strong commitment to sustainability through certified organic farming, energy-efficient practices, and careful resource management. These measures reduce environmental impact and promote biodiversity. Being sourced from Germany's Nahe region, the distribution footprint is smaller relative to New World wines, further lowering carbon emissions.