Dr Hermann - Erdener Treppchen Riesling Beerenauslese Goldkapsel 2013

Dr Hermann - Erdener Treppchen Riesling Beerenauslese Goldkapsel 2013

This wine from Dr Hermann in the Middle Moselle represents the highest art of the noble sweet Riesling culture. The Beerenauslese (BA) from the "Erdener Treppchen" vineyard with the rare distinction of the gold capsulecombines the powerful minerality of the red slate terraces with the concentrated sweetness of selectively hand-picked berries affected by noble rot (Botrytis cinerea).

Origin and character
The Erdener Treppchen is considered one of the most prestigious sites on the Moselle. The steep, south-facing slate slopes give the wines a characteristic flavour and a firm acidity structure, which is essential for the balance of a Beerenauslese. The 2013 vintage, characterised by a slow ripening process and cool nights, favoured the development of an extraordinary complexity of aromas combined with admirable freshness.

Sensory characteristics
The wine reveals a multi-layered depth on the nose: ripe peaches, apricots and mango blend with exotic notes of candied pineapple and honeydew melon. Typical of the site, fine mineral hints of slate dust and smoky spice permeate the fruit bouquet, accompanied by delicate floral accents and a hint of saffron.

The Goldkapsel reveals its special quality on the palate. Despite the high level of residual sweetness (Beerenauslese), the wine appears light-footed and extremely elegant thanks to the precise, cool acidity of the Moselle. The texture is creamy, almost oily, but without heaviness. The noble rot reveals itself in flavours of orange zest, ripe quince and a subtle hint of caramel. The finish is long-lasting, mineral and leaves a feeling of enormous persistence.

Development and potential
With over ten years of bottle age, this 2013 is currently in an excellent drinking window. The primary fruit flavours have become interwoven with the complex ripe aromas without losing any of their vitality. Due to its high extract density and stable acidity, this Beerenauslese has enormous ageing potential; it will continue to gain finesse and complexity over the next two decades and develop hints of dried fruit, amber and fine distillates.

Serving recommendation
Due to its concentration, a drinking temperature of 8-10 °C is recommended. The 375 ml bottle is ideally portioned for enjoyment as a digestif or to accompany high-quality desserts. Classic accompaniments are foie gras, blue cheese (e.g. Roquefort) or desserts with a subtle sweetness such as mango tart or crème brûlée. This wine also unfolds its full splendour on its own as a "liquid dessert".