WTN: 1997 Gunderloch Auslese

According to the website of Rudi Wiest, this Auslese is still available. BUY

1997 Gunderloch, "Rothenberg" Auslese, Rheinhessen, Germany
A fresh, pure style of Auslese. Like the 2001 Spätlese trocken and 2002 Spätlese “Rothenberg” a few weeks ago, the 97 Auslese present a superb balance.
Impressive young&filigree and not over the top or sticky sweet. Dominant slate minerality with a hint of petrol in the bouquet. A lovely lightness of being on the palate with flavors of passion fruit, orange peel and a touch of nougat in the finish. Fascinating fruit density with 9,5% and this Auslese has a long life ahead. I would drink it solo at the end of a dinner, as it has only a discreet sweetness and not together with cheese or dessert.
No doubt, Agnes und Fritz Hasselbach are gifted winemakers. If you are interest in the history of the estate, here is a great story by Rudi Wiest. History of Gunderloch
92pts.


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[David M. Bueker]

1997 is a vintage that is overall drinking very well now. I had the J. J. Christoffel Erdener Treppchen Riesling Auslese** the other day, and it too was delicious. It was nearly dry (surprisingly), but loaded with Mosel minerality.

Hi Martin,

Thanks for the tasting note. I am a big Gunderloch fan myself. Have you ever tried Gunderloch's 2001 riesling auslese 'Nackenheim Rothenberg'? It is the only white I have in my long term storage wine fridge. I am wondering when it might mature as I only bought only one bottle and am aging it.

[David M. Bueker]

Hi Martin,

Thanks for the tasting note. I am a big Gunderloch fan myself. Have you ever tried Gunderloch's 2001 riesling auslese 'Nackenheim Rothenberg'? It is the only white I have in my long term storage wine fridge. I am wondering when it might mature as I only bought only one bottle and am aging it.

Tom - I have just begun sampling the 2001s and I would wait another 3 years before trying it (minimum).

Tom - I have just begun sampling the 2001s and I would wait another 3 years before trying it (minimum).

Thanks David,

That estimate is kinda what I thought. I was tentatively thinking of drinking it for my 60th (not 82nd as some would have you believe) birthday in 2011.

Tom,

I share David´s view, you must show patience. For example, in case of the 02 Spätlese I will wait another 5 years for opening the next bottle. I haven´t tasted 01 Auslese but I think it is worth to wait.

Cheers,
Martin