From Austria's spectacular Wachau Valley, where steep, stone-walled vineyards rise above the Danube, Rudi Pichler produces some of the region's most celebrated Rieslings. This 2022 comes from terraced hillside vineyards with thin, rocky soils over ancient crystalline bedrock. Smaragd, named for the emerald-green lizards that inhabit these sun-warmed terraces, designates the Wachau's fuller-bodied, dry wines. Beautifully concentrated yet remarkably precise, with aromas of white peach, apricot, lime zest and wild herbs. Layers of ripe orchard fruit and citrus are balanced by vibrant acidity and a distinctive stony minerality, leading to a long, elegant finish. 13.5% alcohol