Oestricher Lenchen, Spätlese 303, 2021

Now proudly bearing the name Eiserberg on the label, as it did back in 1920 when the original 303 was produced, this absolute cracker of a Spätlese comes from a section of the Lenchen vineyard where red slate dominates. Technically, the Lenchen Grosse Lage has two clearly defined plots – the Lenchen itself and the Lenchen Eiserberg, which is the southwest facing part where the soils are much redder (Eiser translates as Iron). This iron-rich component adds a huge amount to the blend and adds to the distinctive character of Spreitzer’s 303. Indeed, in the whole Rheingau there are only three red soil sites: Schloss Johannisberg, Rothenberg and Lenchen Eiserberg. A wine of real deftness, the great acidity keeps this lifted and animated as notes of Williams pear, fine raspberry, Mirabelle and fresh green apple flood the palate. Ripe fruits abound, with such clear aromas on the nose. A wine of glorious fruit delivery and sheer deliciousness, produced from pure golden grapes and no botrytis whatsoever. Don’t miss.