2003 Saarburger Rausch Spatlese
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Tasting notes
Picked late in October, near the end of this year's harvest, this offers a juicy, engaging citricity with lime and tangerine added to the Saar-typical cherry-almond family of flavors and hints of apple pip and brown spices. Substantial on the palate without being at all heavy. Fresh fruit and mineral dust finishing character. While truly dry wines represent only around 5% of Zilliken's production and two of three barrels of this Spatlese Trocken have been set aside for rendering into Sekt, that does not mean he underperforms with or takes Trocken rieslings for granted. 1 star.
Critic scores
Average Score
Pierre Rovani
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Zilliken’s 2003 Riesling Spatlese Saarburger Rausch bursts from the glass with expressive white flower scents. On the palate, this delicate, light-bodied effort never seems to fully blossom. Restrained notes of minerals and red berries can be discerned in its shy and slightly dusty personality. Drink it over the next 4-5 years. Importer: Rudi Wiest Selections by Cellars International, Inc., Carlsbad, CA; tel. (760) 566-0499
Dumb nose. Definitely pronounced acidity. Steely, racy, fine, delicate. (JR)
Zilliken’s 2003 Riesling Spatlese Saarburger Rausch bursts from the glass with expressive white flower scents. On the palate, this delicate, light-bodied effort never seems to fully blossom. Restrained notes of minerals and red berries can be discerned in its shy and slightly dusty personality. Drink it over the next 4-5 years. Dec 2004, www.robertparker.com