2022 · Labeja Riesling trocken

Rheingau-based Saltaren Wines is led by Alex Saltaren Castro, a Colombian sommelier and trained winemaker who found his vinophile home in Germany. He works a small vineyard in Mittelheim’s Sankt Nikolaus, where 30-year-old vines grow near the Rhine on sandy loess and calcareous loess-clay soils. His approach emphasizes respect for nature, biodiversity, no additives and minimal technology. Grapes undergo whole-cluster pressing, maceration and natural-yeast fermentation, with the wines given extended time in used 300-litre barrels and barriques. Since 2020, an antique restored basket press has been used in the cellar. His two single vineyards, Edilia and Labeja, reflect personal heritage and the importance of bees and biodiversity.