2002 Niederhauser Hermannshohle Auslese
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Tasting notes
Dominated by botrytis and spices, the nose of the 2002 Riesling Auslese Niederhauser Hermannshohle leads to a broad, immensely rich core of enormous concentration. Medium-bodied, laced with spicy noble rot, it has tremendous depth, power, and length. It is rather fitting that both of the estate’s 2002 Auslesen are only available in half-bottles, a sign that Donnhoff himself realizes they are more than Auslesen, deserving to be treated (and served) as Beerenauslesen. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2030. For the second year in a row, Helmut Donnhoff has left me shaking my head in wonder. Having tasted the greatest wines in the world, year in and year out, as a wine merchant and as a critic, did not prepare me for the awe-inspiring experience of tasting through Donnhoff’s 2001s and 2002s. They are magical, emotional, breath-taking. My words cannot do them justice. Importer: Terry Theise Estate Selections, imported by Michael Skurnik Wines, Inc., Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Very pale. Very pure. Grapefruit syrup nose. Flowers. Very delicate and lively and dancing. Very refreshing! (JR)
Very light nose at the moment but much, much sweeter and richer than any other Auslese I have tasted. Syrupy in one way yet lively and really, really exciting. Lime and lychees. Go for it! (JR)
(for 375 ml.) Musky, floral and pit fruit aromas. On the palate, peach with honey, dripping musky florality and a hint of licorice interact with smoky minerality and an almost fiery spiciness. This is very dynamic, right through to its finishing play of pungent smoke and phenolics with botrytis spice and electric acidity. Whether it can achieve the sheer beauty and balance that characterize the best Spatlesen here today must be left open to debate. 1 star.