Dr Hermann - Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel 2013 375ml

Dr Hermann - Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel 2013

The Auslese Goldkapsel from the famous Ürziger Würzgarten vineyard epitomises the strong character of Dr. Hermann. The name "Würzgarten" says it all: the unique terroir of red volcanic rock and slate gives the wine an unmistakable spiciness and depth, which blends with noble sweet finesse in a particularly elegant way in the 2013 Goldkapsel Auslese.

Origin and terroir
The Ürziger Würzgarten is one of the most distinctive sites on the Middle Moselle. Unlike the surrounding slate terraces, the soil here is interspersed with deep, red volcanic rock (diabase), which ensures exceptional heat storage. This geological peculiarity characterises the Rieslings with an intense mineral flavour, which the vineyard name recalls. The steep, south-west-facing slopes favour slow ripening. The gold capsule characterises a strict selection of the best grapes with fine noble rot within the Auslese.

Sensory characteristics
On the nose, the wine opens with a fascinating blend of ripe fruit and typical spice. Flavours of yellow peach, apricot and quince meet exotic notes of mango and passion fruit. Behind this, the characteristic flavours of the vineyard unfold: fine herbal spice, candied ginger, cloves and a hint of smoke. The noble rot contributes subtle notes of honey and saffron.

On the palate, the Auslese Goldkapsel displays impressive tension. The lively, precise acidity of the Moselle perfectly balances the concentrated sweetness. The texture is creamy and delicate at the same time - a play of density and lightness. The spicy terroir notes continue on the palate and give the wine an extraordinary complexity. The finish is very long, with a fine minerality and a hint of citrus zest.

Development and potential
More than ten years after the harvest, this 2013 is at an excellent stage of development. The primary fruit is still present, while the first ripe notes of caramel, orange peel and dried fruit are delicately emerging. Due to its dense structure and vital acidity, this Auslese has great ageing potential. It will continue to grow in complexity over the next 15 to 20 years and its spicy flavours will become even more prominent.

Serving recommendation
Enjoy this wine at 8-10 °C from a large white wine glass. The Ürziger Würzgarten Auslese Goldkapsel is a versatile food companion: its spiciness harmonises perfectly with Asian dishes (especially with ginger, lemongrass or light spiciness), foie gras, spicy hard cheese (such as an aged Comté) or delicate desserts such as a ginger and peach tart. With its balance of sweetness, acidity and flavour, it can also be enjoyed on its own.