2018 kupp Riesling Fass 18 Grosses Gewachs
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Tasting notes
Bittersweet notes of floral perfume, zesty kumquat, lime and roux mark the penetrating nose, and there is a corresponding piquant concentration of flavors on the full-bodied, subtly oil palate. A tart edge of crab apple, sizzle of sage and influx of mineral salts serve for invigoration and salivary stimulation on a gripping and multifaceted finish, albeit one that may disappoint those seeking refreshment. I can’t see the point of insisting that this wine needs time to reveal its stature, much less to be enjoyed – even though that seems to be the consensus among fellow critics. But the fact that it’s slightly lower in alcohol than its two 13% siblings renders it, in my experience, less likely to become encumbered by heat or harshness six or eight years on. That said, I have chosen to be conservative in my prognosis of ageability, and I would want to carefully monitor any bottles that resided in my cellar.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Stephan Reinhardt, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Impressive concentration of ripe fruit finds expression in a fragrance of yellow plum and candied citrus fruit. Sweet luscious fruit with a tropical accent also makes the first impact on the palate, before more subtle notes of exotic spice and stony minerality begin to emerge. Juicy acidity reflects the generosity of the vintage. (MS)
Lauer's 2018 Kupp Fass 18 (Ayler Kupp Riesling GG) displays an intense golden-yellow color and opes with a deep, fresh and concentrated bouquet of lemon confit and spicy-mineral slatey notes. Round, lush and intense, with concentration but also finesse and even freshness, this is a full-bodied, juicy and very aromatic but tightly structured Riesling with a long, intense finish. Impressive but probably not such a spectacular long-distance runner. Bottled nine days before I tasted it on June 21, 2019. Release date: September 2019.