Enkircher Ellergrub Riesling Spätlese 2019

Konstantin Weiser and Alexandra Künstler run this small, 4ha winery organically. Next to Clemens Busch, the two of them form the Sperrspitze in this area. A large part of the steep slopes is in single-pole cultivation and thus very time-consuming to work. Blue slate forms the base in the vineyards in Trarbach and Enkirch. Grape quality is the top priority for both of them. They attach importance to moderate Oechsle values and a crisp acid structure. The fermentation takes place spontaneously to 100%. The dry qualities are traditionally vinified in barrels. With the residual sweet and noble sweet wines Inox comes into play. Oxidation plays a controlled role during the vinification in order to bring out the minerality. The wines should never be fruit-oriented. The maturation on the yeast is untypically long for the region. However, from my point of view, this has a noticeably positive effect on the mouthfeel. Konstantin Weiser has also made it his business to work out the individual predicates with noticeable differences, because the transitions are often fluid.

And this is exactly what we experience with this wine. The Spätlese is clearly separated from the Kabinett. And upwards again clearly distinguishable from the Auslese from the same site.

Delicate golden yellow, green reflections.

Fully ripe lemons and pineapple characterize the first impression. A delicate herbal tone underpins the whole. A discreet note of honey and some wet stone round off the picture.

The first sip conveys pure drinking pleasure and elegance. A congenial play of sweetness and acidity. At no time does the sweetness seem superficial, but always integrated in a balanced way. The present acid structure serves the drinking flow, but is above all the basis for a very good storage potential.

After the sip, the salivation is stimulated directly. This has a really good draw. In 2019, I have stored up many German vintners as very brilliant and clear. This image is absolutely confirmed here.

The lemon aromatics are still there, but make plenty of room for a ripe pineapple. The slate underpinnings lash out in a cool, stony note. Beautifully underpinned by a delicately sweet finish and subtle melt. Never heavy, always light-footed and insanely elegant.