2012 Selbach-Oster Zeltinger Himmelreich Riesling Eiswein- Germany, Mosel Saar Ruwer (8/2/2020)
Pale gold with a nose of tropical fruits dipped in honey. On the palate a kaleidoscope of tropical fruit flavors, clover honey, minerals and a nice acidic streak. While quite sweet, there’s enough acidity to balance the sugar and the wine dances lightly on the palate. Finishes long.
Yes, mind-bending. But unfortunately, climate change is going to do (is already doing to Eiswein) what it has done to Kabinett. I suspect the Saar and Ruwer will hold out the longest, but eventually this will become a bit like vintage port - maybe 2 out of 10 vintages. More’s the pity.
The character of Eiswein has already changed. Used to be there were more botrytis-free (or at least almost free) Eisweins. Not nearly so many anymore. I miss those.