Egon Müller zu Scharzhof - Scharzhofberger Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel 1976

Tasting note: Egon Müller zu Scharzhof - Scharzhofberger Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel 1976

Vintage: 1976
Region: Scharzhofberger, Saar (Germany)
Grape variety: Riesling
Predicate: Auslese Goldkapsel

Sensory analysis

Appearance:
Deep, bright amber colour with copper reflections and greenish shimmering edges. Shows the maturity of a Riesling that has matured for almost five decades. Viscous "tears" reveal the concentrated sweetness.

Nose:
A sublime bouquet of tertiary aromas: petrol, beeswax, candied bergamot and dried peach skin. Underneath, notes of honeydew melon, overripe mirabelle plums and a fine minerality of slate and pebbles unfold. Slight hints of ginger, saffron and a touch of precious woods round off the complex spectrum.

Palate:
Opulent sweetness, masterfully tamed by floating, lively acidity. Flavour nuances of apricot jam, candied citrus fruits, caramel and a salty, slatey texture dominate. The tannins are fully integrated, the texture velvety and oily, carried by an almost dizzying balance.

Finish:
An endlessly long finish, characterised by vibrant acidity, honeycomb and a mineral coolness. Echoes of bitter orange and roasted almonds add depth, while the sweetness gently fades on the palate.

Overall impression

An epic Riesling that epitomises the essence of the Scharzhofer and the genius of the 1976 vintage. Despite the warm, sun-drenched autumn (1976 is considered the vintage of the century), the wine retains a breathtaking freshness thanks to the cool minerality of the Saar. The gold capsule signals an exceptional selection - botrytised grapes of the highest concentration. A wine of timeless elegance that masterfully combines the duality of power and grace.

Drinking maturity:
At the peak of its development, but will keep for decades thanks to its acid structure. A now-or-never experience for collectors and connoisseurs.

Serving suggestion:
Serve at 10-12°C in large white wine glasses. Pour gently to avoid sediment; decanting is not necessary.

Possible combinations:
Perfect with Roquefort, goose liver pâté or desserts with marzipan and quince. Also unforgettable as a meditative solo wine.

Background

The Scharzhofberg, one of the most famous steep slopes in the world, is characterised by Devonian slate, which gives the wine its unmistakable mineral character. Egon Müller, an icon of German Riesling, vinified this Auslese in an era when natural spontaneous fermentation and minimalist intervention defined the style. The gold capsule characterises a microscopic selection that is only produced in outstanding vintages. The 1976 is considered one of the greatest Rieslings of the 20th century - a contemporary document of German wine culture.

Rating: 98/100