"...the [2024s] have beautiful concentration and real tension. Well done." - Anne Krebiehl, Vinous
Arguably one of the top three estate in the Wachau, Rudi Pichler is a unanimous reference-point for the region, and there are few, if any, estates that have the same wherewithal to spin absolute gold out of a difficult vintage. Old vines, steep slopes, and Rudi's uncompromising, meticulous skills turned out a range of stunning expressions that are easily among the best in the category.
From the beautifully balanced, 94-point Grüner Veltliner Smaragd Terrassen to the towering excellence of the 98-point Riesling and Grüner Smaragds from the Achleiten site, the entire range is comprised of must-have benchmarks for serious Austrian fans. Savvy buyers will not overlook the "exquisite purity and expression" of the double 96-point Riesling Smaragd Kirchweg or the equally "stunning" Grüner Veltliner Smaragd Kollmutz.
These are just a few of the highlights in an entire line-up that sets the bar for the vintage, and to top it all off, don't miss the very last stocks of the equally prodigious 2023s, still available at remarkable pricing.
The 2024 Riesling Kirchweg Smaragd, from a site closer to the river on a mix of gneiss and loess, charms right away with its tangerine note. On the palate, the juiciness gives way to zestiness and the wine simply moves, simply flows, all tension, all mouthwatering brightness, all exquisite purity and expression, lip-smackingly gorgeous and so ready. Full of joyous energy and life, as straight as an arrow.
96 points, Anne Krebiehl, Vinous (Jun 2025)
Fresh pineapple fruit is married to great energy on the focused, medium-bodied palate of this very impressive dry riesling. Excellent midpalate concentration. However, it’s the racy elegance and finesse in the extremely long finish that really make this stand out. Sustainable. Vegan. Drinkable now but best from 2026.
96 points, Stuart Pigott, James Suckling (Sep 2025)
Light green yellow, silver reflections. Delicate herbal savouriness, dark minerality, with fine yellow tropical fruit in the background, delicate fresh mango, mineral touch. Full-bodied, fine fruit nuances, delicate hints of apricot and papaya, finesse-rich acidity, salty touch on the finish, good length, secure development and certain ageing potential.
96 points, Peter Moser, Falstaff (Jun 2025)
A distinctive style, with ripe persimmon, dried apricot and guava on a ripe, concentrated palate. Salty and sleek, with peach skin bitterness and dried herbs coasting along the long, mineral-lined finish. An expressive, harmonious Riesling. Drink now through 2034.
94 points, Kristen Bieler, Wine Spectator (Jul 2026)
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