Kuenhof Riesling Kaiton 2019

Kuenhof is one of the best white wine domaines in Northern Italy. Steep, stoney terraced vineyards at an average of 550-700m (1 800-2 300 feet), with the very distinctive schist and quartz soils create electric minerality in their aromatic wines from Riesling, Gruner Veltliner and Sylvaner. The 6 hectares are organically grown and are careful hand selected. Owners Peter and Brigitte Pilger winery has been in the family for over 200 yers, but the farmhouse Kuenhof dates back to the 12th century. It wasn’t until the early 1990’s that the couple decided to make their own wines utilizing biodynamic practices instead of selling to the local coop. Fermented ambient yeasts, stainless steel and a portion of large oak casks, then screw cap (of which the owners are very proud of, as the wines will taste exactly as the winemaker intended.

Kuenhof Riesling Kaiton 2019

Südtirol-Alto Adige, Italy

6 000 bottles made

Pours in the glass a pale watery lemon color.

Swirl and the snappy minerality is followed by aromas of citrus fruits (lime peel), pear & honey.

Sip and the true to form zingy acidity hits your first, followed by the fresh flavors of lemon, lime peel, apple, pear, peach, smoke, ginger, white pepper, brioche and finishes on an almost electric mineral note that just lingers for a long time. Clean, brilliantly bright and has loads of electric character and personality.

I paired it with grilled lemon zest and chive swordfish kebabs. To be quite honest, this wine was fantastic on it’s and disappeared VERY quickly.