TN: Donnhoff Schlosbockelheimer Kupfergrube Reisling Spatlese 2002

Light to medium yellow gold in color, with a somewhat subdued, but very nice nose of peach, a touch of citrus, and a bit of aged reisling petrol. Even after three plus hours of air this was still a bit subdued.

On the palate this is a nicely balanced wine, not overly sweet, but showing some very nice sweet and tart peach and pear fruit flavors, decent acidity, and a pretty nice finish. A very enjoyable glass of wine.

But after drinking this a few times on release and then buying six bottles to cellar, this is somewhat a let down. On release this was really special. Great depth of flavors, sweetness perfectly balanced by the acidty, and a mile long finish. This bottle is just lacking in comparison. Maybe it is just in a shut down period, but I doubt it. I have some 2001 Donnhoffs which are drinking much better at this stage and seem to have much more future potential.

this was my pick of the litter when I tasted them in 03—glad to have the note.

Interesting note given that a number of folks are saying the opposite - that they find the 2002s to have more promise than the 2001s.

I haven’t opened many of the 2002s lately. Will have to check in again some time soon.