Weingut Carl Koch Oppenheimer Gutleuthaus Sparkling Riesling Monopol NV

Run by seventh-generation owner Paul Berkes, the Weingut specialises in small-batch production wines grown around Oppenheim. Organic since 2010, the 12ha of vines are planted on loess, clay, and limestone marl across some of Rheinhessen’s finest sites.

Their Gutleuthaus Sparkling Riesling Monopol comes from a monopole vineyard right beside Oppenheim’s old city walls. Those historic stone walls help create a warmer microclimate, giving the grapes a little extra help with ripening. Made using the traditional Champagne method and aged on its lees for two years, it’s a unique sparkling Riesling with lovely ripe orchard and citrus fruit, honey and flint, plus a hint of toast notes. Rich on the palate yet balanced by Riesling’s crisp, refreshing acidity, it finishes long and dry. Only 997 bottles were made. This is a great alternative fizz which is super versatile at the table.