2018 Maximin Grunhaus Abtsberg Riesling Spatlese [JS96][WA95][W&S94][WS93]

"This moves up a gear from the Herrenberg in terms of concentration. This offers a very intense, lime and herb nose and fresh minerals, delivering a very harmonious impression. The depth and sense of seamlessness here is incredible. This has a super pure feel with juicy and intensely ripe fruit on offer. Such length and purity. Drink over two decades." 

"The 2018 Maximin Grünhaus Abtsberg Riesling Spätlese opens intense yet pure and floral/herbal on the nose, with delicate yet intense dark flinty slate aromas. The palate is lush, round and highly stimulating with its delicate, crystalline and salty acidity, which lends remarkable finesse and length. This is delicious and fabulous in its weightless but nobly refined character and endlessly salty, playful but also long and mineral finish." 

"This just sings. A late-harvested selection of riesling off vines averaging 40 years old, fermented with ambient yeasts in large oak casks, it tastes like yellow plums and peaches at the height of ripeness. The texture is luxurious, a satin ribbon of fruit sweetness carried aloft by equally vibrant acidity. It lasts with bell-tone clarity, approachable now with or without food, and structured for aging as well." 

"Rich, concentrated and almost waxy, with a vanilla-tinged core of lime and yellow apple flavors. Turns savory and stony as this drives through the piquant aftertaste. Light-weight, but mineral-driven and intense overall, displaying complexity and length. Best from 2021 through 2035." 

Winemaker Notes: 

"Abtsberg is the premier site on the Grunhaus hillside, it’s deep blue slate adding an extra dimension to the Riesling grown here. High toned aromas of white peach, Bosq pear, lime juice and sweet chives. Classic Spatlese sweetness with flavors redolent of dried apricot, guava, and a distinct herbal/smoky character."