2020 Niederhauser Hermannshohle Spatlese
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Tasting notes
The 2020 Niederhäuser Hermannshöhle Riesling Spätlese is magic. Pure, refined and aristocratic on the flinty, slate-dominated and slightly herbal nose that is populated by crushed stones and tiny mint leaves, while the bright fruit is perfectly interwoven with terroir-driven flavors. Racy, juicy-piquant and intense on the palate, this is a noble, highly elegant and complex Hermannshöhle with a long, intense and complex yet again very refined and floating finish. A genius of a Spätlese where everything is perfectly interwoven to an unspeakable beauty. "What is it that is so beautiful? That is the magic!," says Helmuth Dönnhoff, describing his philosophy of beauty. 8.5% alcohol. Tasted at the domain in July 2021.
Critic scores
Average Score
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Having tasted the best of dry and sweet from the Hermannshöhle its unique distinction among the magnificent different sites cultivated by the Dönnhoffs seems to be its ability to match complexity and elegance with great richness of flavour. Without having to resort to exotic or tropical notes its generosity of fruit soothes rather than taxes the palate, but is still gifted with exhilarating freshness driven by vibrant acidity. The sensory pleasure is further enhanced by a subtle sprinkling of minerality. Some Dönnhoff wines may grab you, this one embraces you. (MS)
AP number 17 21. Prettily scented citrus aroma is the first impression but as you swirl the wine in the glass, there is a depth and richness to the fruit. Peachy citrus flavours give way to mouth-watering citrus that puts the sweetness into the background. Arrow-like finish. (JH)
Hit me with a flower! This starts very delicately with an incredibly subtle nose of fresh and dried flowers. Then comes the enormously concentrated yet totally filigree palate, which dazzles the senses with its thousand nuances and almost endless, super-silky finish. Decades of aging potential. From organically grown grapes with Fair'n Green certification. Drink or hold.