1980 Mitchelton Classic Release Rhine Riesling

The use of the term Rhine Riesling now seems strange, especially given that this was a re-release of the wine around the middle of the ’80s (by which time it had won six gold medals and nine silver medals). The fill level of this bottle was excellent, the cork holding its resilience, but I had a back-up bottle ready. As soon as the colour (bright greenish gold) appeared as the wine was poured, my expectations rose rapidly. Once I had smelt it, there was no question: this wine was in great condition. It must have had somewhere between 7 and 10 grams per litre of residual sugar, for the fruit still had a luscious overtone. On the other side, perfect acidity lengthened the palate, and provided balance. All in all, a remarkable bottle. Smoked kassler was a harmonious match.