Zilliken Rieslings: A Symphony of Tradition and Terroir in the Saar Valley
Connoisseur Magazine Editor Axel Ritenis in the company of his German friend Joachim (Puma) Schmitt visit a highly regarded Saar valley Weingut (after the recent industry announcements) on the eve of the “Saarling Summer Loves Riesling” weekend in the beautiful German Medieval town of Saarburg. This year’s kick-off event of the Saar Riesling summer weekend, takes place n the Wiltinger Schlossberg on 30 august , in a stunningly beautiful environment high above the Saar altar, where guests will enjoy and celebrate until the evening with entertainment and the Running Wild Jazz Band as well as the delicious local delicacies with the amazing wines.At a walking dinner, guests have the opportunity to look over the chefs’ shoulders and connect with the winemakers.
“Nestled amidst the steep, sun-drenched slopes of the Saar Valley, where ancient vineyards cling precariously to the earth, the Zilliken family has cultivated a legacy of exceptional Riesling wines that have captured the hearts and palates of connoisseurs worldwide. For generations, they have remained steadfast in their commitment to quality, tradition, and the unique terroir that defines their wines.”
A Spectrum of Saar Flavors
Zilliken’s portfolio presents a captivating spectrum of Riesling expressions, each a testament to the diversity and complexity of the Saar terroir. From the youthful exuberance of their estate wines, bursting with vibrant fruit and refreshing acidity, to the profound elegance of their single-vineyard bottlings, destined for grand occasions and decades of graceful aging, Zilliken offers a Riesling for every discerning palate.
Uncompromising Dedication to Quality
At the heart of Zilliken’s success lies an unwavering dedication to quality. Every step of the winemaking process is imbued with a sense of purpose and meticulous attention to detail. From the careful tending of their 100% estate-grown vineyards to the gentle handling of the grapes in their historic cellar, Zilliken ensures that each bottle bears the hallmark of their uncompromising pursuit of excellence.
Photo: The deep dark cellar provides the ideal atmosphere for ageing Riesling at Weingut Forstmeister Geltz Zilliken
The Mystical Cellar: A Sanctuary of Slow Maturation
Deep beneath the earth, Zilliken’s cellar, the deepest in the Saar Valley, exudes an aura of mystique and reverence. Its dimly lit halls, once a backdrop for detective films, provide the perfect sanctuary for the slow and deliberate transformation of their Rieslings. Here, in the cool, humid embrace of ancient stone and oak barrels, the wines undergo a gentle fermentation and extended aging, allowing their complex flavors and aromas to unfold gracefully over time.
A Family Legacy Rooted in Tradition
“The Zilliken family’s winegrowing roots stretch back to 1742, a testament to their enduring legacy and deep connection to the Saar Valley. Through generations of dedication and perseverance, they have weathered challenges and triumphs, preserving their commitment to crafting wines of exceptional quality and character.”
Photo: Dorothee Zilliken showing the oak barrels in the cellar for ageing Riesling at Weingut Forstmeister Geltz Zilliken
The Zilliken Touch: Oak, Time, and Patience
Oak barrel fermentation and extended bottle aging are hallmarks of the Zilliken approach, a testament to their belief in the transformative power of time and patience. Their wines, crafted to mature gracefully over decades, reward those who appreciate the nuances and complexities that develop with age.
Zilliken Rieslings: A Saar Legacy of Timeless Quality
In the heart of the Saar Valley, where steep slopes and ancient vineyards converge, the Zilliken family has cultivated a legacy of exceptional Rieslings. Revered by connoisseurs globally, their wines embody timeless tradition and unwavering dedication to quality.
“From fresh estate wines to age-worthy single-vineyard bottlings, Zilliken offers a symphony of flavors, each capturing the essence of the Saar terroir. Their commitment to 100% estate-grown grapes and meticulous vineyard management ensures uncompromising quality in every bottle.”
Deep within their mystical cellar, the deepest in the Saar Valley, Zilliken’s Rieslings slowly ferment in oak barrels and mature gracefully over time. This dedication to traditional winemaking techniques, coupled with a profound respect for nature, results in wines of exceptional depth and complexity.
Photo: Saarbrucken writer Joachim Schmitt discussing the wine with Dorothee Zilliken in the slate featured tasting room at Weingut Forstmeister Geltz Zilliken
We tasted many of the Rieslings from the VDP Ortswein range and also the higher grade of the VDP.Grosse LAGE range which designates the very best vineyards of Germany within which the finest parcels have been narrowly demarcated .With their site specific characteristics ,these wines are particularly expressive and have exceptional ageing potential
Slate and Oak: A New Chapter Unfolds
The recently unveiled tasting room, a harmonious blend of slate and oak, embodies the timeless elegance of Zilliken’s wines. It is a space where visitors can immerse themselves in the estate’s rich history and savor the fruits of their labor.
A Timeless Invitation
“Zilliken Rieslings are more than just wines; they are an invitation to experience the essence of the Saar Valley, a testament to a family’s enduring legacy, and a celebration of the artistry and dedication that goes into crafting world-class wines. For connoisseurs seeking the pinnacle of Riesling expression, Zilliken offers a timeless journey of discovery and delight.”
Weingut Forstmeister Geltz Zilliken
Heckingstraße 20 54439 Saarburg
Tel.: +49-6581-2456 Fax.: +49-6581-6763
