Von Winning - OZYETRA Riesling 2019

Tasting note: Weingut Keller - Dalsheimer Hubacker Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese 1993

Vintage: 1993
Region: Dalsheimer Hubacker, Rheinhessen (Germany)
Grape variety: Riesling
Predicate: Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA)

Sensory analysis

Appearance:
Intense amber gold with copper-coloured reflections and viscous "tears" at the edge of the glass. Shows the concentration and maturity of old noble sweet wines.

Nose:
An opulent, multi-layered bouquet: honeycomb, overripe apricot, candied orange peel and a hint of petrol - classic tertiary aromas of a mature Riesling. Exotic spices (saffron, ginger), dried figs and a mineral character of slate and pebbles resonate underneath. The noble rot lends a sweet, slightly smoky nuance.

Palate:
A firework display of sweetness and acidity. The residual sweetness is lush, but is perfectly balanced by a lively, laser-precise acidity structure. Aromas of date confectionery, caramelised almonds, quince jam and an undertone of salty rock dominate. The texture is silky and dense, almost oily, but never heavy.

Finish:
Extremely long, vibrant finish with echoes of bitter orange, honeydew melon and a salty mineral trace. The acidity keeps the sweetness in check and leaves a refreshing, almost meditative note.

Overall impression

A monumental TBA that epitomises the art of sweet Rhine-Hessian wines. Despite the difficult 1993 vintage (cool, damp weather, late development of noble rot), this wine overwhelms with its complexity and longevity. The combination of concentrated fruit, mineral rigour and floating acidity shows the signature of the Keller winery - precise, profound and always elegant. A wine that masterfully explores the duality of power and grace.

Drinkability:
At the peak of its development, but will keep for decades thanks to its acid structure. Now an experience for lovers of mature sweet wines.

Serving suggestion:
Serve at 10-12°C in large Burgundy glasses to reveal the full range of flavours. Do not decant!

Possible combinations:
Perfect with gorgonzola dolce, foie gras or marzipan desserts. Can also be served solo as a contemplative end to a meal.

Background

The Dalsheimer Hubacker, characterised by limestone and clayey loam, is one of Rheinhessen's Grand Cru-worthy vineyards. Weingut Keller, known for generations for its mineral Rieslings, vinified this TBA in a vintage that required patience and selective harvesting. The 1993 reflects the era before global warming - less alcohol, more filigree acidity - and stands for the timelessness of great sweet wines.

Rating: 98/100