Dr Hermann - Erdener Prälat Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese Goldkapsel 2013

Dr Hermann - Erdener Prälat Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese Goldkapsel 2013

This wine is one of the greatest rarities of Dr Hermann and the entire Middle Moselle region. The Trockenbeerenauslese from the single vineyard Erdener Prälat with the Goldkapsel award represents the absolute pinnacle of noble sweet Riesling culture. Only in years with perfect botrytis-promoting conditions can this selection of berries that are completely penetrated by noble rot and have already dried on the vine be achieved. The 2013 vintage provided ideal conditions for this.

Origin and terroir
Erdener Prälat is one of the steepest and warmest sites on the Moselle. Its south-south-west facing, terraced slopes consist of deep, red slate, which is characterised by a particularly high iron content. This rock stores the sun's heat and releases it during the cool nights, creating an exceptionally long ripening window. The microclimate conditions favour the development of high-quality noble rot while at the same time preserving the finely chiselled acidity typical of Prälat.

Sensory characteristics
On the nose, the Trockenbeerenauslese reveals an incomparable complexity: aromas of candied peaches, apricot jam, orange peel and exotic fruits such as mango and papaya blend with intense botrytised notes of honey, saffron and fine spices. Characteristic of the Prälat, mineral accents of red slate, fine smoky aromas and a delicate, almost salty spiciness are added.

On the palate, the gold capsule has an almost overwhelming density. The texture is heavy, syrupy and at the same time has a rare, floating lightness. Despite the enormous residual sweetness, the precise, well-integrated acidity ensures a breathtaking freshness and balance. The flavours of dried fig, date, caramel and candied ginger with their emphasis on noble rot are infused with a persistent, mineral coolness. There seems to be no end to the finish - a wine with a monumental aftertaste.

Development and potential
The 2013 vintage is one of the classic, slow-ripening decades on the Moselle. More than ten years after the harvest, this Trockenbeerenauslese is in a fascinating transitional phase: the primary fruit is still present, but fine ripe notes of brioche, orange zest and noble spice are already emerging. Due to the extremely high extract and acidity structure, the wine has almost unlimited ageing potential. Over the coming decades, it will develop into a complex masterpiece characterised by caramel, walnut and floral honey notes.

Serving recommendation
Enjoy this wine well chilled at 8-10 °C from a large white wine glass. The 375 ml bottle is the ideal size for this concentrated pleasure. Trockenbeerenauslese wines of this quality level develop their greatest effect as a stand-alone "liquid dessert". However, they harmonise masterfully with foie gras, mature blue cheese (Roquefort, Stilton) or desserts that are deliberately not too sweet, such as a light chocolate mousse with sea salt or a warm, caramelised lemon tart. A wine for special moments that rewards patience and attention.