Emmerich Knoll Muskateller Beerenauslese 2015

Harvested well into November, this Beerenauslese opens with heady sage and elderflower aromatics that carry straight through to the glass. Rich and oily in texture, it spreads across the mouth generously, with fresh apricot and lemon providing the lift and juiciness that keep the sweetness from feeling heavy. A faint bitter edge of apricot kernel on the finish is exactly what's needed, it sharpens the whole experience and makes this far more refreshing than the sugar level might suggest. When Muskateller grapes desiccate under ideal conditions, the concentrated acids can produce something of startling purity, and this is a fine case in point. Past Knoll bottlings in this style have aged with distinction.