2016 Richter Juffer Sonnenuhr Spatlese

Constantin’s selection was quite strict for the little bit of Juffer Sonnenuhr that did become Spätlese, although he says it is more Goldkapsule in nature than a traditional Spät, from botrytis free fruit. “Huge, classic tutti-frutti Juffer aromatics lead to a rich palate impact of gorgeous, luscious fruit texture that is given terrific poise and linear drive from its mineral and acidic spine, all enrobed seamlessly. Delicious.” A little * awarded here.

“The 2016er Juffer-Sonnenuhr Spätlese was made from clean and shriveled grapes harvested at 94° Oechsle. It develops a delicately creamy nose of vineyard peach, grapefruit, some earthy spices and quite some citrusy whipped cream. The wine proves deliciously playful and mouth-watering on the palate as rich creamy fruits are balanced out by zesty acidity. The finish is still on the sweet side at this early stage but this should develop positively at maturity, and there is even quite some upside potential if it gains in finesse. 2026-2046” 93 MFW

“Reflecting highly concentrated but entirely healthy grapes harvested at 94 Oechsle, and a volume of just 3,000 liters from 2.5 acres in the prime Falkenberg lieu-dit, it’s not hard to understand why Constantin Richter presented this bottling last in his lineup of 2016 vintage Spätlesen. “If we had ‘gold capsule Spätlesen’,” he noted, “this would be one.” A headily ripe nose of Persian melon, mango and pineapple anticipates the flavors but not the degree of brightness, tang and animation exhibited on a creamy palate, a legacy of light berry desiccation having concentrated acids as well as sugars. The lingering finish is prominently sweet by estate standards but both luscious and refreshing” 92 David Schildknecht