J. J. Prüm - Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese Goldkapsel 1971

J. J. Prüm - Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese Goldkapsel 1971

1. introduction & wine profile
The 1971 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA) Goldkapsel from Joh. Jos. Prüm is one of the most legendary and long-lived German Rieslings of the 20th century. The year 1971 is considered one of the great vintages of the century on the Moselle, with optimal conditions for the creation of highly concentrated yet delicate Prädikat wines. This TBA represents the absolute pinnacle of winemaking - from raisin-like berries completely shrivelledby noble rot (Botrytis cinerea) from selected parcels in the famous sundial vineyard.

2. sensory description (based on numerous tasting notes over decades)

• Colour:Deep, vibrant gold that has developed amber reflections over time. Shows its maturity, but never appears dull or tired.

• Nose: A complex, multi-layered symphony of ripe tropical fruit (mango, pineapple, dried apricot), candied citrus notes, honey, caramel, dried herbs and a typical Mosel-stone minerality. With air, notes of tea, spices (ginger, saffron) and a wonderful wax and petrol note develop, which is desirable in great, old Rieslings.

• Palate:Stunningly dense and sweet (the residual sugar is probably over 200 g/l), but never heavy or sticky. This is perfectly balanced by a lively, razor-sharp acidity structure. The result is a wine of incredible tension, finesse and length. Flavours of concentrated stone and citrus fruit, honey, almonds and an intense mineral character lead to a finish that lingers for minutes.

• Overall impression:A monument to elegance and complexity. Despite its extreme concentration and sweetness, the wine remains light as a feather, infused with a salty minerality that makes it infinitely drinkable.

3. ageing potential & storage
This wine was made for eternity from the very beginning. After more than 50 years, it is at its absolute peak. The primary fruit flavours have transformed into a fascinating tertiary spectrum, while the acidity continues to serve as a framework. If stored properly (dark, cool (10-12°C), constant temperature, lying down), this wine still has enormous potential for several more decades. It is a prime example of the unrivalled ageing potential of the Mosel's greatest Rieslings.

4. significance & rating
The 1971 TBA Goldkapsel from J. J. Prüm is one of the most important wines ever produced in Germany. It perfectly embodies the ideal of Mosel Rieslings: maximum concentration combined with a floating lightness. This wine regularly fetches very high prices at auctions (often in the four-digit range per bottle) and is a sought-after collector's item. It is awarded top marks by critics worldwide (100 points in retrospective evaluations).

5. serving recommendation & occasion

• Temperature: 10-12°C to bring out the full complexity.

• Glass: Large, tulip-shaped Riesling or white wine glass.

• Occasion: This wine is an event in itself. It deserves to be the centre of attention at a tasting or an unforgettable highlight at a special feast. Classic accompaniments are fine pâtés (e.g. foie gras), intense blue cheese (Roquefort) or complex desserts based on caramel or exotic fruits, but ultimately it is perfect for contemplative concentration on its own incomparable interplay of flavours.

Conclusion:
The J. J. Prüm Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese Goldkapsel 1971 is an absolute icon of the wine world. It combines the extreme contrasts of opulent sweetness and radiant acidity, concentrated fruit and earthy minerality to create a perfect, timeless harmony. A wine that not only masterfully documents the greatness of the vintage and the vineyard, but also the incomparable art of the estate. An experience that will deeply impress every wine connoisseur.