The 2022 Selbach-Oster Zeltinger Schlossberg Riesling Spätlese is a noteworthy white wine from the Mosel Saar Ruwer region in Germany, specifically from the Middle Mosel’s Zeltingen Rachtig appellation. Produced by Selbach-Oster, this Riesling showcases the quality and character typical of its terroir.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded this wine a commendable score of 94 points. Reviewer Stephan Reinhardt praised its "clear and finely flinty bouquet of crushed rocks and precise, bright, slightly citric fruit aromas." He noted that the wine is "lush and concentrated, with lively fruit acidity and savoriness," likening its taste to "a ripe Riesling berry." Reinhardt also mentioned the advantageous terroir, highlighting the 40-year-old vines growing on finely weathered gray and blue slate, making it particularly suitable for dry summers such as 2022. The wine has 8% stated alcohol and uses a screw cap closure.
Vinous gave the wine a score of 92 points. Anne Krebiehl MW described it as "redolent of ripe red apple, with floral overtones." She observed that the sweet palate includes "ripe, yellow peach flesh to this tarter apple expression, edging it lightly with riper citrus." Krebiehl also praised the finish as "mouthwatering on this light-bodied, ever so slightly textured and most harmonious wine." She noted the wine's residual sugar content of 76g/L, indicating its sweetness.
James Suckling offered the highest praise, scoring it 95 points. Stuart Pigott vividly described the wine as a "yellow peach supernova," commending its "incredible fruit" and "fabulous freshness." He highlighted the "completely uplifting harmony" created by the delicate grape sweetness and the "super-bright finish that is almost perfectly balanced." Pigott suggested that the wine can be enjoyed now or held for later, also noting its screw cap closure.
In summary, the 2022 Selbach-Oster Zeltinger Schlossberg Riesling Spätlese is a highly regarded wine with excellent reviews. It is characterized by its bright fruit flavors, balanced sweetness, and harmonious finish, making it a standout choice for Riesling enthusiasts.