If you’re a fan of German Rieslings, you may already know that Auslese is a term for high-value wines made from very ripe, late-harvested grapes that are typically selected cluster by cluster.

Today we’d like to introduce you to two of our Ausleses, the 2006 Erdener Prälat Riesling Auslese and our 2006 Erdener Prälat Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel.

The Legendary Erdener Prälat Vineyard
Erdener Prälat (pronounced AIR-din-er PRAY-laht) is considered by many to be the greatest vineyard in the Mosel region. Dr. Loosen owns the biggest piece of this legendary four-acre site, with just over one acre. The site has perfect southern exposure, 100-percent (45 degree) slope, very old vines in mineral-rich red slate soil, and lies directly adjacent to the river. All these things, combined with its position below huge, heat-retaining cliffs, explain why we never harvest anything less than Auslese from this vineyard.

The 2006 vintage in the Mosel was an exceptional year for extraordinarily ripe Auslese. Still, lush as they are, these wines maintain that elegant, well-balanced Mosel style.

2006 Erdener Prälat Riesling Auslese
The Erdener Prälat Riesling Auslese is our ‘regular’ Auslese. It has minimal or no botrytis (the beneficial mold that draws water out of the grapes, leaving behind an ultra-concentrated nectar).

Here’s what Wine Enthusiast says about it:
96 Wow. This gorgeous dessert-style auslese explodes from the glass in a cavalcade of sweet fruit and spice. Honeyed peaches and dried apricots are most prominent, but shadings of cinnamon and allspice give complexity, while crisp acids provide impeccable balance on the long finish. Delicious now, this wine should easily evolve for up to 40 years.

2006 Erdener Prälat Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel
“Goldkapsel” is our first botrytis selection, made from partially affected clusters of very ripe Auslese grapes. The 2006 vintage in the Mosel was an exceptional year for botrytis, producing wines that are dense and concentrated, yet still vibrant and racy. That wonderful combination of power and grace is what makes Mosel Rieslings so captivating and unique.

Here’s what Wine & Spirits says about it:
95 This is very intense, with a complex array of flavors ranging from apple and poached pear to papaya and even raspberry. It’s big and plush yet feels effortless, with a remarkable sense of clarity and laserlike tension.

Are You Ready for Dessert Yet?
Try these exceptional Ausleses and let us know what you think!