Walter Scheu - Müller-Thurgau Trockenbeerenauslese 1963 375ml

Walter Scheu - Müller-Thurgau Trockenbeerenauslese Rheinpfalz 1963

Region: Rheinpfalz (today Pfalz), Germany
Vintage: 1963
Grape variety: Müller-Thurgau
Predicate: Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA)
Alcohol content: Estimated at 7-9% (typical for TBAs of this time)
Residual sugar: Very high (approx. 200-300 g/l)

Sensory description

Colour:
Deep amber to old gold, possible lightening at the rim. Typical of highly concentrated, oxidatively matured sweet wines.

Nose:
Complex aromas of dried apricots, dates and sultanas, overlaid with notes of honeycomb, caramel and a slight oxidative elegance (walnut, sherry touch). In the background, subtle botrytis notes (tea leaves, noble mushroom) as well as a mineral underpinning that hints at the Palatinate terroir.

Palate:
Extremely concentrated and sweet, but harmoniously integrated due to the long maturation. Flavours of candied oranges, fig compote and maple syrup, accompanied by a tart freshness (citrus jam) that is surprising despite its age. The acidity is soft but still present, which indicates a good balance during the harvest. The texture is silky, almost oily, with a lingering finish of cloves, liquorice and a hint of smoke.

Ageing potential:
TBA wines of this era can age for decades if kept in optimal conditions (cool, dark, constant temperature). The 1963 has probably reached its plateau - further storage harbours the risk of losing freshness.

Vintage conditions in 1963

The 1963 vintage in Germany was characterised by a cool, rainy summer and a late autumn. Noble rot only developed locally, particularly in favoured locations in the Palatinate. TBAs from this vintage are therefore extremely rare and often come from selective single harvests. The fact that this wine exists speaks for the skill of the winemaker and the quality of the site.

Rating & Rarity

• Quality: ★★★★☆ (4/5 - subject to actual ageing)

• Potential: Historical collector's item, more museum value than drinking pleasure.

• Specialities: Müller-Thurgau TBAs are interesting due to their rarity; the grape variety was often used for lighter wines back then. The fact that it is available here in a TBA version makes the wine a curiosity.

Recommendations

• Serving temperature: 10-12°C to emphasise sweetness and complexity.

• Food pairing: Strong blue cheese, foie gras or a dark chocolate tart.

• Drinking window: Still drinkable when the bottle is intact, but primarily of interest to history-drunk collectors.