FX Pichler Loibner Steinertal Smaragd Riesling

Wachau, Austria

F.X. Pichler's Smaragd Riesling from the ancient granite Steinertal vineyard on the Danube's north bank — bone dry, intensely mineral, and hauntingly complex. Yellow peach, white flower, granite dust, white pepper, and the long mineral finish that only great Riesling achieves. Age for 20+ years.

Pairing intelligence

• dessert: The Wachau's most famous food and its finest wine — apricot notes in the Riesling find direct resonance in the Wachau's legendary apricots; a circular, regional pairing of great beauty
• main: Danube fish and Danube wine — the Riesling's mineral precision and citrus character is the ideal partner for the delicate freshwater fish; chive and dill bridge the herbal notes