2018 Spätburgunder "R" Carsten Saalwächter, Rheinhessen

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - 2018 Spätburgunder "R", Carsten Saalwächter

Assembling the two best barrels of what otherwise would have become the Alte Reben the crimson colored 2018 Spätburgunder R is deep, clear and refined on the pure and mineral as well as delicately fruity and toasty nose that displays red berry and cherry aromas and a beautiful spiciness of the limestone terroir. Full-bodied and round and more open than the "regular" Alte Reben, this is a full-bodied, elegant and refined Pinot from vines up to 56 years old. The finish is juicy, intense and smooth yet fine and elegant, with finely grained tannins, yet it has initially less tension than the currently pretty reductive Alte Reben but develops impressively over hours and even the following 9 days. The finish is intense and sweet, very promising, with tight and tart tannins also extracted from the oak vats. 12.5% alcohol. Tasted in November 2020. - Stephan Reinhardt, März 2021