2005 Reinhold Haart Piesporter Goldtropfchen Riesling Spätlese

Given the quality of this year’s Spatlesen that immediately preceded it, I felt as though the 2005 Piesporter Goldtropfchen Riesling Spatlese had something to prove about this great site. Above all, it seemed to demonstrate that the Grafenberg and Goldtropfchen are very distinct in character. In this Goldtropfchen we have a Spatlese much more opulent and abundant in fruit character, but without the delicacy or refinement of the Grafenberg. Floral and herb distillates, fresh apple, pink grapefruit, lemon curd, and pineapple are among the bold diversity of aromas that soar from the glass. On the palate, honeyed richness and juicy refreshment are both manifested in a kaleidoscope of fruits. Subtly tart fruit skin and distinctively wet stone manifestations of slate add further complexity to the finish as well as assisting in the restraint of what is analytically very high residual sugar. The record shows that a Haart Goldtropfchen this stuffed with fruit will evolve over 20 or more years. Importer: Rudi Wiest, Cellars International, Carlsbad, CA; tel. 800-596-9463