2018 Theo Minges Rieslaner Spätlese

Not picked until November 18, this leads with pungent evocations of sage and sweat, suggesting Scheurebe or Muskateller more than it does Rieslaner. Behind that, and prominent on the glossy palate, comes candied lychee tinged with celery seed, evoking Gewürztraminer, accompanied by overripe banana. Pronounced sweetness reinforces an impression of gaudiness that persists into an extremely sticky finish. As with so many of the Minges vintage 2018 sweet wines, I have no doubt this will hold up in bottle for a long time, but will it prove worth holding?