Description

Bender's Auslese Riesling is a textbook expression of Mosel delicacy, layered with the concentration and honeyed ripeness that only botrytis-touched, late-picked fruit can give. On the nose, expect ripe stone fruit and orchard blossom, with the faintest whisper of petrol that comes with age. The palate shows real richness balanced by that unmistakable Mosel minerality, all racy acidity and slate-driven precision, keeping the wine feeling taut and focused rather than heavy. There's an amazing drive through the mid-palate, with layers of honeyed fruit unfurling right through to a long, mouth-watering finish.

Its natural partner is a creamy blue cheese, where the wine's sweetness and acidity cut beautifully through the richness and salt. But don't pigeonhole it there: this is a surprisingly versatile wine, equally at home with spiced Asian dishes, foie gras, or simply on its own as a contemplative sip.