2015 Schloss Johannisberger Auslese Rosalack

Honey and citrus fruit are the starting point for a seductive fragrance with many delightful facets. Although 2015 has put quite an exotic slant on the generous aromas exuded by this Auslese, herbal and spicy notions get a look-in too. Rheingau Auslesen have been known to overwhelm with baroque opulence in the past, but this is not the wont of the Rosalack. The acidity of the vintage is perfectly pitched to furnish this noble-sweet gem with great vibrancy, its finish enhanced by a very gentle dusting of stony minerality. Exquisite and quite probably under-scored. (MS)

Honey and citrus fruit are the starting point for a seductive fragrance with many delightful facets. Although 2015 has put quite an exotic slant on the generous aromas exuded by this Auslese, herbal and spicy notions get a look-in too. Rheingau Auslesen have been known to overwhelm with baroque opulence in the past, but this is not the wont of the Rosalack. The acidity of the vintage is perfectly pitched to furnish this noble-sweet gem with great vibrancy, its finish enhanced by a very gentle dusting of stony minerality. Exquisite and quite probably under-scored. Apr 2016, www.jancisrobinson.com, Drink: 2015-2030

Made with 30% of top botrytis, the 2015 Schloss Johannisberger Rosalack Riesling Auslese is very bright and clear on the nose, offering concentrated, but healthy tropical fruit aromas (pineapples, mango...) intertwined with flinty and delicate honey aromas. On the palate, this wine is sweet, enormously salty and filigreed. It reveals a great purity, piquancy and finesse, and the finish is really piquant and salty, very precise and a great expression of the Johannisberg. Great Riesling, great Johannisberger, great Auslese—all 2015. (Bottled with a total acidity of 10.3 grams per liter.) Oct 2016, www.robertparker.com, Drink: 2020-2050