When it comes to sweet Riesling wines, there are several exceptional options to consider. One of the sweetest and most highly regarded is the 2003 Egon Muller Scharzhofberger Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese from the Mosel region in Germany. This wine is made from grapes that have been affected by noble rot, a beneficial fungus that concentrates the sugars and flavors in the berries. The result is a luscious, honeyed wine with intense sweetness and a perfect balance of acidity.
Another top contender for the sweetest Riesling is the 1959 Egon Muller Scharzhofberger Riesling Beerenauslese, also from the Mosel region. This wine, with its decades of age, has developed complex flavors of dried fruits, caramel, and spices. It is a true gem for those who appreciate the richness and depth that time can bring to a sweet wine.
For a more recent vintage, the 1994 Fritz Haag Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese Goldkapsel is another excellent choice. This wine hails from the Mosel region as well and is known for its extraordinary concentration and sweetness. The Goldkapsel designation indicates that this wine is made only in exceptional years when the grapes have achieved the highest levels of ripeness and sugar content. It is a true indulgence for those seeking an unforgettable sweet Riesling experience.
When it comes to sweetness levels in Riesling, it is important to note that the sweetness of a wine can vary depending on the level of residual sugar left in the final product. Rieslings can range from bone-dry to intensely sweet, with varying degrees of sweetness in between. Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA) and Beerenauslese (BA) are two of the sweetest styles of Riesling, made from grapes that have been affected by noble rot and harvested at a late stage of ripeness.
In terms of sweetness, Rieslings can also be classified using the German Pradikat system, which categorizes wines based on their ripeness and sugar levels. The categories from driest to sweetest include Kabinett, Spätlese, Auslese, Beerenauslese, Eiswein, and Trockenbeerenauslese.
Ultimately, the sweetness level of a Riesling is a matter of personal preference. Some may prefer a drier style, while others may seek out the intense sweetness and complexity of a Trockenbeerenauslese or Beerenauslese. Exploring different styles and vintages can be a delightful journey of discovery, as each wine offers its own unique expression of sweetness and complexity.
In my personal experience, I have had the pleasure of tasting a range of sweet Rieslings, and each has left a lasting impression. From the vibrant acidity and tropical fruit notes of a Kabinett to the opulent richness and honeyed flavors of a Trockenbeerenauslese, each wine has its own charm and allure. It is truly a testament to the versatility and complexity of the Riesling grape.
Whether you are a fan of sweet wines or simply curious to explore the world of Riesling, I highly recommend trying some of the finest sweet Rieslings available. The 2003 Egon Muller Scharzhofberger Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese, 1959 Egon Muller Scharzhofberger Riesling Beerenauslese, and 1994 Fritz Haag Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese Goldkapsel are exceptional choices that showcase the pinnacle of sweetness and complexity in Riesling wines. Cheers to indulging in the sweet pleasures of this beloved grape!