Markus Molitor Riesling Ockfener Bockstein Auslese ** (White Capsule) 2021

Markus Molitor farms across the Mosel, Saar and Ruwer, and this Auslese comes from the Ockfener Bockstein, a steep south facing site in the Saar valley. The slope is blue Devonian slate, a stone that warms quickly in a cold region and drives the smoky mineral edge these wines are known for. The Saar sits at the cool limit of ripening, so the growing season is long and the grapes hold sharp acidity even as sugars climb. Auslese is made from selected bunches picked well into autumn, many touched by botrytis, which shrivels the fruit and concentrates sugar and flavour. Fermentation is left to stop naturally with residual sweetness intact, and ageing on the fine lees adds weight and a subtle savoury depth. The white capsule marks this as a drier styled example within the estate range. The colour is bright gold with a green cast. The nose shows honey, ripe apricot, white peach and a slate driven flintiness. The palate is sweet but taut, the acidity cutting straight through the sugar to a long citrus close. Serve chilled at 8 to 10 degrees.