The 2022 Willi Schaefer Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Kabinett is a white wine produced by Willi Schaefer in the Graach appellation of Germany's Mosel Saar Ruwer region. This Riesling, bottled under a cork with an alcohol content of 7.5%, showcases the distinct characteristics of its Middle Mosel sub-region.
Highly praised by critics, the wine has received excellent reviews. James Suckling awarded it 95 points, highlighting its "wonderful nose of spring meadows and ferns with delicate stone fruit aromas," further noting its "astonishing silky elegance and a freshness that defies easy description." Suckling also emphasized its depth and refinement, describing the finish as "very long" (James Suckling, 8/10/2023).
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate gave the wine a score of 93 points, with Stephan Reinhardt describing it as "clear, bright and fresh on the still young and yeasty nose." He mentioned the presence of a "coolish, flinty character with ripe, well-concentrated fruit and dark slate notes." On the palate, Reinhardt found the wine to be "round and charming, mouth-filling and fruity but finessed and balanced," predicting that it will become even more elegant with further bottle age (Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, 5/31/2023).
Decanter magazine also rated this Riesling highly, awarding it 94 points. The review praised its "great elegance and focus," as well as its "aromatics of lime zest and pronounced notes of spiced pear." The palate was described as a blend of "cardamom, nectarine flesh and honeyed pear," with a balance of intensity and a "light impression" (Decanter, 10/31/2023).
In summary, the 2022 Willi Schaefer Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Kabinett is a highly regarded wine known for its elegance, complex aromatics, and balanced palate. Professional reviewers have noted its potential for further aging, making it a noteworthy choice for both immediate enjoyment and future cellaring.