The 2018 Fritz Haag Brauneberger Juffer Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese Half Bottle (375ml) is an extraordinarily rare and profound Mosel Riesling, representing the pinnacle of German sweet wine production. Produced from individually selected botrytised berries harvested from the legendary Brauneberger Juffer vineyard, this Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA) showcases the remarkable concentration, purity and longevity that have made Fritz Haag one of Germany’s most revered Riesling estates. The outstanding 2018 vintage provided ideal conditions for the development of noble rot, resulting in a wine of immense richness balanced by the vibrant acidity that defines great Mosel Riesling.
The nose is intensely aromatic and captivating, revealing layers of apricot preserve, candied citrus and ripe peach alongside acacia honey, orange marmalade and tropical fruits. Notes of saffron, beeswax and exotic spice emerge with aeration, while delicate hints of white flowers, dried apricot and slate-driven minerality add extraordinary complexity. The aromatic profile is both opulent and remarkably precise, displaying incredible depth without losing freshness.
On the palate, it is lusciously sweet and immensely concentrated, yet beautifully balanced by laser-like acidity. Flavours of apricot nectar, pineapple, honeycomb and candied lemon unfold in layers, supported by vibrant citrus freshness and remarkable mineral tension. The texture is rich, viscous and mouth-coating, yet the wine never feels heavy due to its exceptional purity and energy. The finish is extraordinarily long and persistent, carrying lingering notes of honey, tropical fruit, citrus peel and slate minerality for minutes after each sip. This is a wine of immense complexity and precision, capable of evolving gracefully for decades.
Ben’s Recommendation: At Wine More Cellars, this is an exceptional collector’s wine and one of the world’s greatest sweet wine styles. Unlike many dessert wines that rely solely on richness, Fritz Haag Trockenbeerenauslese achieves remarkable balance through its intense acidity and mineral precision, creating a wine of extraordinary elegance and longevity. This is a true cellar treasure that can be enjoyed now in tiny pours or aged for generations. Drink now or cellar confidently through to 2060 and beyond. Perfect with blue cheese, foie gras, fruit tarts, crème brûlée, washed-rind cheeses or simply enjoyed on its own as a meditation wine.
