Rauenthaler Baiken Riesling Auslese 1971, von Simmern
 

The wine is Rauenthaler Baiken Riesling Auslese 1971, Freiherr von
Simmern. AP Nr. 33045 00772, and has 10.0 % alcohol. It has been
stored properly by me since shortly after release, and there were no
cork or other issues.

This wine is holding very well and likely to last many more years. It
is golden and has considerable mineral character - quite different
than for a Moselle slate. It reminds one of a complex mixture of white
and yellow fruits such as peaches and apricots. There is honey, but
not the tropical fruit of a 1976. It is extremely rich but has plenty
of acidity to balance. This wine has perfect balance and great length.
It is about as good as a Rheingau Riesling gets. However it takes a
top year for the top Rauenthalers to shine, and 1971 was one of the
best years in the second half of the last century.