Another ten year comparison, once again Australia, but now Alsace - a pair of 2001 Rieslings.
2001 was a decent year in Alsace, with bad weather in the spring and there being no flowering until May and June. Then a lovely summer meant that that things were looking up until rain hit in the autumn. Fortunately it was saved again by an Indian summer and the wines The Clare Valley however, started off well, but the year just got hotter and hotter resulting in scorching of the grapes. Then, just to make things a bit bad for them, rain hit, and then the temperature went through the roof again, resulting in younger drinking wines.
Two wines with turbulent growing seasons, one starting good and the other starting bad. How has the last ten years affected them?
2001 Trimbach Cuvee Frederic Emile Riesling 375th Anniversary
Soft, round, ginger notes on the nose with a light fresh honey aroma. Soft, juicy, sweet lemons galore with a little papaya mixed with sweeter spices. The palate is minerally at first and then becomes a honey flavoured, pencil lead and pineapple skin palate It is soft, well balanced, the 12.5% alcohol is nowhere to be seen and it has a lovely balance. The finish has a warmth on the end. Fabulous but still very young and with a long lasting, rich, gorgeous finish. 8.5/10 with more potential.
2001 Wakefield St Andrews Riesing
Very zingy on the nose, some freshly squeezed lemon and lime, with a good dollop of lime zest. There is just a touch of lime cream on the back end of the nose. The palate is a little oilier than expected, with lots of lime, a little burnt citrus zest and then a petrol note comes through. There is also a clay like flavour which is a touch off putting. There is minerality, but also some sweet elements that just shouldn't be there in a good, aged, dry riesling. There is also noticable alcohol and the acid is totally off balance. 13% alcohol and you are aware of it. 6/10 It is a bit like a little boy trying to be a grown up whereas the Trimbach is an elegant young lady.
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