Dönnhoff Oberhäuser Brücke Riesling Spätlese Magnum 2014

Dönnhoff Oberhäuser Brücke Riesling Spätlese Magnum: A symphony of sweetness and acidity

The Dönnhoff Oberhäuser Brücke Riesling Spätlese Magnum is a captivating German Riesling wine that offers a delightful balance between ripe fruit flavours and refreshing acidity.  Spätlese, translating to "late harvest" in German, indicates grapes picked after full ripeness, resulting in a wine boasting concentrated sweetness. This magnum format, containing 1.5 litres, is perfect for sharing with friends or celebrating a special occasion.

Tasting Notes:

• Aroma: On the nose, the Dönnhoff Oberhäuser Brücke Riesling Spätlese Magnum unfolds a symphony of aromas. Expect to find generous notes of orchard fruits like ripe peach, apricot, and pear, intertwined with hints of honey and floral notes like jasmine and elderflower. Mineral undertones add complexity and intrigue.
• Palate: The first sip reveals a burst of sweetness, balanced beautifully by a crisp acidity that cuts through the richness. The flavours echo the aromas, with ripe orchard fruits dominating the palate. Hints of honeydew melon, citrus zest, and a touch of minerality linger on the finish, creating a long and satisfying aftertaste.
• Body: This Spätlese leans towards medium-bodied, offering a pleasant weight on the tongue without being overpowering. The balanced acidity ensures a lively and refreshing character.

Food Pairing:

The Dönnhoff Oberhäuser Brücke Riesling Spätlese Magnum's sweetness and acidity make it a versatile food pairing wine. Here are some suggested pairings to bring out the best in both the wine and the dish:

• Spicy Food: The sweetness of the Spätlese can tame the heat of spicy dishes. Try it with Thai curries, Indian curries with creamy coconut milk, or Szechuan cuisine.
• Aromatic Food: The floral and mineral notes in the wine complement aromatic dishes beautifully. Pair it with Thai green curry, Vietnamese pho, or dishes featuring lemongrass and ginger.
• Rich Cheeses: The sweetness and acidity can cut through the richness of creamy cheeses like blue cheese, brie, or camembert.
• Desserts: This Spätlese is a fantastic accompaniment to fruit-based desserts like apple pie, peach crumble, or a cheese board with fruit chutney.
• Asian Cuisine: The wine's versatility extends to many Asian dishes. Try it with Korean BBQ, Peking duck, or Vietnamese spring rolls.

Serving Suggestions:

• Temperature: Serve the Dönnhoff Oberhäuser Brücke Riesling Spätlese Magnum slightly chilled, ideally between 8-10°C (46-50°F). This temperature range enhances the wine's refreshing acidity and complements the sweetness without becoming overpowering.
• Glassware: Choose a white wine glass with a slight bowl to concentrate the aromas. A universal white wine glass or a Riesling-specific glass would be perfect.

The Dönnhoff Legacy:

The Dönnhoff winery is renowned for its exceptional Rieslings produced in the Nahe region of Germany. The Oberhäuser Brücke vineyard, meaning "Upper House Bridge," is one of their most prized sites, known for its steep slopes and weathered Devonian slate soils. These factors contribute to the concentration and minerality found in the resulting wines.

In Conclusion:

The Dönnhoff Oberhäuser Brücke Riesling Spätlese Magnum is a captivating Riesling that offers a delightful balance of sweetness and acidity. Its versatility makes it a perfect companion for various cuisines and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.  Whether you're enjoying a spicy Thai curry, a creamy cheese board, or a decadent dessert, this Spätlese will elevate your dining experience.