2015 Bernkasteler Lay Auslese (3 star) GK

This “three-star” Auslese illustrates Molitor’s increased activity in Bernkastel sites, where expanded acreage increases the likelihood that selective picking will accumulate enough fruit to justify dedicated upper-Prädikat bottlings. High-toned, penetrating aromas of cider and apple jack, cherry jam and kirsch are allied with pungent sassafras and candied lime peel. These almost raucously intense elements reunite on the palate, where prickly tart pineapple core adds to the raw sense of cut, energy and sheer concentration. Hints of white raisin emerge midpalate, pointing to the degree of desiccation that was present in this elixir’s raw materials. Penetrating and vibratory, the finish here is almost severely concentrated, leaving the tongue tingling and the cheeks pinched. Give it some time to see whether it settles down a bit.