Pfaffl : Riesling SONNE 2020

A mineral and a fruity Austrian wine stemming from an exceptional terroir

The estate

Although the Pfaffl estate has established itself as one of the finest Austrian estates and has made a name for itself throughout the world, it remains above all a family business. Roman Josef Pfaffl and Heidi Fischer, two great lovers of vines, share the management of the family-owned estate and, thanks to their skilful know-how, they succeed in blending variety and quality. The brother and sister ensure that every single grape is carefully selected by hand from their 110-hectare vineyard, situated to the north of Vienna. In addition to this eco-friendly viticulture, a low-intervention policy in the cellar ensures that the Pfaffl wines are highly authentic and reflect a patchwork of terroirs.

The vineyard

The Riesling SONNE 2020 stems from the Terrassen Sonnleiten vineyard, a plot that stands out from the rest of the Weinviertel wine region in many ways. The soil, although sandy, is mostly rocky and the very dry climate is also characterised by extreme heat. In addition, a wall on the border protects the 30-year-old vines from the cold northern winds. Thus, these Lower Austrian wines showcase a distinctive and exceptional character.

The vintage

The year 2020 began with a very dry winter, followed by a spring similar to the previous months. The arrival of rain during the month of May marked a turning point for the vines. Indeed, the alternation between periods of strong heat and rainy days enabled the grapes to develop. The harvest therefore took place quite normally, much earlier than in previous years. The 2020 vintage in Austria is known for its fruity, acidic character and high minerality.

Vinification and ageing

A small, highly qualified team of winemakers select the best Riesling grapes by hand at the end of September with the utmost care. The must extracted from the grapes is left to rest for a dozen hours before being pressed at low pressure in a pneumatic press. Following fermentation in stainless steel tanks at 19 degrees, the wine is bottled in the Pfaffl cellars.

The blend

Riesling (100%).

Riesling SONNE 2020 by Pfaffl: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Colour
The Riesling SONNE 2020 has a bright golden yellow colour.

Nose
The typical scent of apricot and peach enhances the mineral-elements that are already present on the nose.

Palate
The great minerality of this Riesling SONNE 2020 reveals all its power on the palate. A very fruity character gives this wine a pleasant freshness. The finish is extremely long.

Food and wine pairing

The Riesling SONNE 2020 will perfectly complement fish dishes. It also pairs with vegetarian cuisine beautifully.

Service and cellaring

The Riesling SONNE 2020 offers a truly pleasurable tasting experience in 2021 and can be enjoyed until 2027. For an optimal tasting experience, serve at 10 degrees.