2015 Bernkasteler Lay Auslese (3 star) GK
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Tasting notes
This “three-star” Auslese illustrates Molitor’s increased activity in Bernkastel sites, where expanded acreage increases the likelihood that selective picking will accumulate enough fruit to justify dedicated upper-Prädikat bottlings. High-toned, penetrating aromas of cider and apple jack, cherry jam and kirsch are allied with pungent sassafras and candied lime peel. These almost raucously intense elements reunite on the palate, where prickly tart pineapple core adds to the raw sense of cut, energy and sheer concentration. Hints of white raisin emerge midpalate, pointing to the degree of desiccation that was present in this elixir’s raw materials. Penetrating and vibratory, the finish here is almost severely concentrated, leaving the tongue tingling and the cheeks pinched. Give it some time to see whether it settles down a bit.
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Average Score
Robert Parker
James Suckling
More reviews and scores
Very intense dried mango character, super concentrated and succulent with a blast mineral freshness at the very long finish. Delicious, but with half a century of aging potential.
Delivering ripe and intense stone fruit aromas to the nose, the 2015 Riesling Bernkasteler Lay Auslese *** (Golden Capsule) is less clear, precise and crystalline compared to the corresponding Klosterberg at the moment. Lush and expansive on the palate, with fine acidity and some tannins, this is a very sweet but still slightly astringent and bitter Auslese in the finish that doesn't shine and stimulate as all the others do.
About the producer
Markus Molitor is now among the largest privately owned wine estates in the Mosel and also one of the best. With a focus on single-vineyard expressions, the estate produces between 80 and 90 different wines each vintage.