Peter Lauer Riesling Ayler Kupp “Stirn” Fass 15 2019

94 points John Gilman (View From the Cellar): “The Stirn parcel in the Kupp vineyard is right up at the top of the slope, where there is very little topsoil and the wind always plays a role in its microclimate. The vines in this parcel are sixty-four years of age. The 2019 Stirn is fairly low in octane, coming in at 9.5 percent and carries thirty-eight grams per liter of residual sugar and 9.5 grams per liter of acidity. The wine delivers gorgeous complexity in its vibrant bouquet of grapefruit, tart orange, loads of salinity in its foundation of slate minerality, dried flowers, a touch of wild yeasts and some upper register smokiness. On the palate the wine is bright, full-bodied and beautifully balanced, with a beautiful touch of Spätlese-level residual sweetness to buffer its considerable acidity. The wine has a great core, superb mineral undertow and fine focus and grip on the long, complex and electric finish. I love this wine’s personality this year and am so happy Florian did not try to ferment it up a bit higher in octane to dry it out a bit more, as its balance is absolute perfection. 2020-2060. (Jul/Aug 2020)”

94 points Mosel Fine Wines: “AP: 15 20. The 2019er Riesling Stirn Fass 15 comes from the prime south-west-facing, upper-front part of the original Ayler Kupp hill, and was fermented down to almost fruity-styled levels of residual sugar (38 g/l). This bright colored wine offers a stunning nose made of white peach, floral elements, smoke, freshly cut apple, fine herbs, white flowers, and a subtle touch of smoke. It proves gorgeously playful on the grapefruit and peach infused palate, and leaves a superb feel of orchard fruits sorbet, minerals, herbal elements, and lemony whipped cream in the vibrant and superbly complex finish. This is a remarkable piece of Saar Riesling in the making! 2024-2044. (May 2020)”