Donnhoff - Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Eiswein - 2001

RP 100:

From a parcel that reached 100 Oeschle (the scale used in Germany for determining ripeness, in natural potential alcohol terms it is equivalent to 13%) before freezing, and therefore being concentrated, the 2001 Riesling Eiswein Oberhauser Brucke is a wine of sumptuous ripeness and blazing acidity. Candied eggplants, sweetened herbal teas, minerals, and hints of banana can be found in its penetrating aromatics. It cuts a broad, yet elegant and highly-focused swath across the palate with exotic fruits and strawberries. An offering of magnificent purity, it is immensely concentrated, powerful, lush, refined, and vibrant. Its effects can still be discerned over a minute after having tasted it. This stupendous, complete gem will benefit from a decade of cellaring and will then last for 20 years or more. Bravo! Helmut Donnhoff approached the 2001 vintage much as Reggie Jackson would have reacted to facing a fast ball down the middle thrown by a Junior Varsity pitcher in the bottom of the ninth of the last game of the World Series. Donnhoff hit a towering, grand slam home run of majestic proportions. His 2001s are extraordinary.