WTN: Maximiner Headroom

[David M. Bueker]

• 2001 Carl Schmitt-Wagner Longuicher Maximiner Herrenberg Riesling Spätlese - Germany, Mosel Saar Ruwer (1/25/2024)
  This is a time capsule. 100+ year old un-grafted vines, and winemaking that makes "old school" seem modern. That said, the wines is still bright, fresh, and full of fruit. Seeing it as a 2011 or a 2015 would not have shocked me. The development is textural, with a creamy edge that suits the apple and pear fruit. Just the slightest hint of a smoky note emerges after it's been open for an hour, but who knows after that as the bottle evaporates before the eyes. The vines remain, but the winery is no more. Each remaining bottle is a reminder of the relentless passage of time, and the moments of joy along the journey.