2016 Graacher Domprobst Riesling Spätlese Versteigerung Willi Schaefer, Mosel-Saar-Ruwer

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - 2016 Graacher Domprobst Riesling Spätlese Versteigerung, Willi Schaefer

Schaefer's 2016 Graacher Domprobst Riesling Spätlese (Auction) is very subtle and clear on the deep, smoky but also sensual and highly finessed nose. Lithe and very delicate on the elegant, beautifully balanced palate, this is a terribly lush and refined Domprobst Spätlese with fine acidity and a refreshingly mineral, persistently salty and mouthwatering finish. Great finesse here. This AP #13 Domprobst was sold at the auction in Trier in September 2017. Tasted March 2018. - Stephan Reinhardt, Apr. 2018

Mosel Fine Wines - 2016 Graacher Domprobst Riesling Spätlese Versteigerung, Willi Schaefer

This delivers a stunningly elegant and complex nose which is initially still marked by some residues of spontaneous fermentation through smoky notes of bacon and some bakery elements. These quickly give way to magnificent notes of white flowers, vineyard peach and spices. The wine has a great juicy presence on the palate, a feeling also amplified by a glorious smooth touch of whipped cream. The finish is intense, spicy and smoky. What a beautiful and complex Spätlese. 2026-2046. - Aug. 2017

Vinous - 2016 Graacher Domprobst Riesling Spätlese Versteigerung, Willi Schaefer

Fresh apple, pear and lime on the nose are accompanied on the creamy, buoyant palate by rich, cashew-like nut paste. At the same time, there is juicy, animating brightness here beyond even that demonstrated by the corresponding A.P. #10, as well as a tingling, gingery spiciness that I hadn’t noticed in any other Schaefer 2016s. Christoph Schaefer suggested that slightly lower yields in the sector from which this auctioned bottling originated – at least in part a legacy of hail – may account for its enhanced acidity and overall concentration. The superbly sustained finish manages to soothe as well as to refresh and invigorate. - David Schildknecht, Jan. 2018