Schmitt Sohne 2018 Eiswein (Icewine) Rheinhessen 500 ml

The Schmitt Söhne 2018 Eiswein Rheinhessen is an opulent and refined German ice wine that marries intense fruit concentration with dazzling purity. Lush yet finely balanced, this Eiswein is a luxurious expression of late-harvest botrytis-free sweetness, perfect as a contemplative finale or paired with elegant desserts.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Produced by Weingut Schmitt Söhne, a respected family winery in the Rheinhessen region of Germany, this Eiswein embodies one of the most revered traditions of German sweet winemaking. The 2018 vintage is crafted from hand-harvested grapes that froze naturally on the vine, a process that concentrates sugars, acids, and flavor compounds. Only a small percentage of grapes reach true freezing conditions, resulting in extremely low yields and intensely concentrated must.

After harvest, the frozen grapes are pressed while still frozen, yielding a nectar-rich juice with high sugar and acidity. Fermentation is slow and careful, allowing the development of layered complexity without exhausting all natural sugars; the result is a wine of sweet opulence framed by vibrant acidity and crystalline purity. Schmitt Söhne’s skill in managing both vineyard selection and cellar handling ensures that the wine’s architecture remains poised and elegant despite its richness.

Critics Reviews

There are no widely published formal professional critic scores available specifically for the 2018 Schmitt Söhne Eiswein Rheinhessen from major wine publications. However, German Eiswein from reputable estates like Schmitt Söhne is consistently respected among sommeliers and sweet wine enthusiasts for its purity, concentration, and graceful balance — qualities often celebrated in regional wine reviews and tasting notes.

Tasting Profile

Nose:
A sumptuous aromatic profile of candied apricot, ripe peach, white nectarine, and honeycomb is complemented by hints of citrus blossom, honeysuckle, and delicate spice.

Palate:
Luxuriously rich and concentrated, with intense stone fruit, pear compote, and golden raisin flavors harmonized by vibrant acidity. Layers of honeyed citrus, ginger, and marmalade contribute to depth and persistence.

Finish:
A long, vibrant finish marked by lingering citrus zest, racy acidity, and a kiss of sweetness — a hallmark of great Eiswein that keeps the richness from becoming cloying.

Quick Overview

Food Pairings

Classic Pairing:
Serve with blue cheese (e.g., Stilton, Roquefort) — the interplay of sweetness and savory richness is legendary.

Elegant Dessert Pairing:
Poached pears with spice syrup, crème brûlée, or buttery shortbread — desserts that mirror the wine’s stone fruit and citrus notes.

Gilded Pairing:
Foie gras or seared scallops with a citrus-honey gastrique — the wine’s acidity lifts rich flavors beautifully.

Serve gently chilled in a small dessert wine glass to focus its aromatic intensity.