WTN: 2001 Grunhaus Herrenberg Auslese #188

[David M. Bueker]

Just barely starting to open up, this may even have had a somewhat substandard cork helping it along. Lovely nose, with all the orchard fruit complemented by pine needle and leaves, with just the barest touch of oxidation speaking to that dodgy cork. But overall a fascinating aroma that then led into flavors that echoed the fruit and brought wet stone into the mix. There was essentially zero palate weight, but on the roof of the mouth an intensity of flavor that was long & captivating. This wine belies any rumors of a decline in quality from Grunhaus.

Glad you caught this one before the cork caused trouble. Sounds wonderful - although I'm curious, when was this 'decline' in quality supposed to have taken place? While I'm not that experienced with Grunhaus, between the wines I've had from their recent vintages and that '97 Herrenberg Kabinett you opened for me, I can't see what they've done wrong.

[David M. Bueker]

when was this 'decline' in quality supposed to have taken place?

1999-2004 or so. I don't buy it.

Sounds great. I debated buying some of this recently but instead went for the 'straight' 2001 Abtsberg Auslese. But this could be worth the price difference.

For my palate, I can not hvae enough Grunhaus.

[David M. Bueker]

The regular Abstberg Auslese is a great wine. I have not opened one since release, but that first one was glorious as well.