2022 Rudi Pichler Terrasen Weissburgunder Smaragd Wachau DAC Austria
- "Great Fine Tannins That Beautifully Interlock" ~ 95 James Suckling
- Exceptionally Age-Worthy Pinot Blanc
- Elite Producer in Wachau
- Falstaff’s Vintner of the Year
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About the Wine
Rudi Pichler is considered one of Austria’s most exemplary producers, recognized for crafting wines defined by precision, structure, and long-term aging potential. Named Falstaff’s Vintner of the Year in 2010, the estate has been rooted in Wösendorf since 1731, where generations of the Pichler family have cultivated the steep Wachau terraces.
Rudolf Pichler III took the reins in 1997 and expanded the estate while building a modern cellar in 2004. Despite the contemporary facilities, Pichler follows a restrained, traditional winemaking philosophy: “When the wine is in balance, you don’t have to make it. You’re not a winemaker, just a caretaker.” Today, he and his son, Rudi Jr., work side by side, crafting white wines that Falstaff describes as “precise and full of character.”
Though the estate is best known for Grüner Veltliner and Riesling—which make up the majority of their production—Pichler’s Weißburgunder (Pinot Blanc) bottlings are among the hidden gems of the Wachau. They receive the same meticulous vineyard work and cellar precision as his flagship wines, resulting in expressions that are elegant, textural, and deeply terroir-driven.
2022 Terrasen Weissburgunder Smaragd comes from steep, sun-drenched terraces rooted in ancient Gföhl gneiss and enriched with pockets of loess. These old vines dig deep into the mineral soils, producing a Pinot Blanc of impressive depth, purity, and tension—an unmistakable Wachau interpretation shaped by stone, slope, and the Pichler family’s generational expertise.
Tasting Notes
100% Pinot Blanc.
On the nose, an elegant interplay of aromas unfolds, including ripe pear, white peach, and a hint of citrus, accompanied by a subtle yet noticeable minerality.
On the palate, the wine is juicy, dense, and structured – supported by lively, well-integrated acidity and a long, harmonious finish.
Critical Reviews
Hang on to your hat, because this medium-bodied dry pinot blanc starts rather gently with the cool and youthful nose - delicate aromas of snow peas, green beans, and crisp pear - then shifts up several gears as it shoots over the palate. Extremely focused and mineral finish with great fine tannins that beautifully interlock. ~ 95 James Suckling
Light golden yellow, silver reflections. Delicately smoky-herbal savouriness, fresh pear, a touch of mango, and some honey blossom. Taut, nuances of white stone fruit, fine structure, tightly meshed, delicate grapefruit zest, good length, a multi-layered food companion. ~ 95 Falstaff
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Food Pairing
Shellfish
Seafood
Mouthfeel & Acidity
Wine characteristics including body, acidity levels, tannin structure, and sweetness profile.
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Rudi Pichler Winery
Wachau, Austria
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