2005 Closel Savennières Clos du Papillon
This is much more fine, focused, and fresh than the bottle of 2002 that I had a few weeks ago. Which is nice. That said, it is tightly coiled and ever-so-slightly inscrutable, so I am not really sure why I opened this. Well, mainly because I was curious. Right now, most people would probably be happy to let it rest but I got some pleasure from the fine fragrant floral notes dancing on top of the silky elegant acid frame which covered the hard-ass rock of an interior structure. Curiosity satisfied.
2006 Fritz Haag Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr Riesling Spätlese #7
2006 Fritz Haag Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese
Not sure why I opened these either. Actually, it was because I was also curious and didn’t feel like waiting decades for the botrytis to mellow. Both of them showed lots of creamy botrytis with more cream and thick golden weight in the Auslese. There was also a decent amount of refreshing freshness to the finish of both (more so in the Spätlese), so I didn’t get too tired. That said, there is clearly not much distinction to be found right now. I’m not sure how long it will take for that to emerge or what it will be like when that finally happens, but it probably isn’t worth investing my own money/time/storage.
2008 Daniel Vollenweider Wolfer Goldgrube Riesling Kabinett
This on the other hand is perfect for drinking right now. And I knew that. Which is why I took it to a party. Also so that I would have something I could drink. Consistent with recent bottles this is refreshing sweet, tart, lively, and with enough firm elegance to keep some interest. Nothing profound but the best wine at the party by far. So it was funny to watch people pour the Oak Chardonnay (that was the name!) instead because it was familiar.