WTN: The Power of Goldkapsel

[David M. Bueker]

• 2001 Dönnhoff Oberhäuser Leistenberg Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel - Germany, Nahe (9/4/2021)
  First, a rant. This is not a gold capsule wine. The Leistenberg Auslese in 2001 (and 2003) has a white capsule. There is no gold capsule version. I spent a couple of years trying to get the CellarTracker folks to understand this, but finally gave up. “Goldkapsel” it is, despite the fact that it’s not.
  
  The wine is freaking gorgeous. Wildflower honey drizzled over ripe peaches, served with a sprinkle of nutmeg, and a quick flambé to add a touch of caramelization and a hint of smoke. It’s only modern-Spätlese sweet, but it has stupendous length and haunts the palate with a creamy vanilla finish. The balance is at a point where nothing sticks out in any direction. It’s completely integrated. Drink now and enjoy. Age it longer and enjoy. Imagine what it might have been like if it was actually a gold capsule wine.