Enjoying a tasty wine in a distinctive Bocksbeutel bottle always provides a sure fire way have some fun. Who couldn’t use a little fun right about now?
For instance, start with the delicious 2018 Michael Fröhlich, Silvaner, Erste Lage Escherndorfer Lump V.D.P., Franken, Germany (Available in Pennsylvania on Fine Wines and Good Spirits as Luxury 80918 Code; $19.99). The pot-bellied, flattened Bocksbeutel bottle has a distinctive green color and an eagle depicted on the capsule. In Germany’s Franken region, only the top wines come in this type of bottle.
In this case, veteran winegrower Michael Fröhlich uses Silvaner grapes cultivated in a single top site, the Lump vineyard in the village of Escherndorf. The south-facing slope affords the vines plenty of sunshine and shelter from cold winds.
Afterwards, Fröhlich deftly captures his Silvaner grapes’ delicate blend of fruitiness and freshness. The wine opens with aromas of ripe peaches and citrus. In the glass, juicy peach flavors strike a fine balance with notes of tart quince, grapefruit and lime zest. The finish is fruity, but dry. This beauty keeps you coming back for one sip after the other. Highly Recommended.
TROCKEN, AS IN “SMOKIN!”
Next up, the 2017 Weingut Weltner, Scheurebe, Rödelseer Schwanleite trocken, Franken, Germany (imported exclusively in the U.S. by the “Rebel Wine Retailer” Lyle Fass of Fass Selections for around $25; inquire for availability). The wine is Trocken, as in smokin’! In other words, Trocken means “dry” in German, without residual sweetness. In this case, talented winegrower Paul Weltner uses Scheurebe grapes to craft a deliciously fruity and beautifully balanced white perfect for enjoyment on cool Spring evenings.
Importer Lyle Fass likens the Rödelseer Schwanleite vineyard to a “Grosses Gewächs,” that is, a grand cru site. The vineyard has relatively high altitude between 820ft and 1,100 feet above sea level. It has a relatively cool climate even as it soaks up plenty of afternoon sun. Consequently, the grapes ripen slowly and evenly to retain exquisite balance.
The wine offers pineapple, grapefruit and brown spice aromas opening to crisp yet ripe fruity flavors. Marvelous fresh acidity balances the fruity, dry finish. An uplifting wine worthy of Spring itself.
Have you tried German wines from Bockbeutels? Which wines? Share your experiences in the comments below. Cheers!