A magnificent set of 2 bottles of 2005 Schloss Lieser Niederberg Helden Riesling Auslese Lange Goldkapsel. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a highly exclusive and collectible wine from one of the Mosel's most celebrated producers. The Winemaker: Schloss Lieser, under the brilliant stewardship of Thomas Haag, has been elevated to cult status. Thomas Haag, son of the legendary Wilhelm Haag of Weingut Fritz Haag, has been crafting world-class wines since he took over in 1992. His philosophy is centered on meticulous vineyard management, extreme yield reduction, and a commitment to showcasing the purest expression of the Mosel's unique slate terroir. His dedication to quality has made Schloss Lieser a star of the Mosel and a must-have for collectors of fine German wine. Yield Reduction and Exclusivity: This specific bottling, the Lange Goldkapsel (long gold capsule), signifies a level of exclusivity and quality beyond the standard Auslese. It indicates that the grapes were of even higher ripeness and quality, often from a special selection within the vineyard. The extreme yield reduction practiced at Schloss Lieser, combined with selective harvesting of only the very best berries, results in wines of incredible concentration, complexity, and longevity. The Lange Goldkapsel designation is a mark of this commitment, making these wines some of the most sought-after and cellar-worthy in the world. Wine Awards and Ratings: The 2005 vintage was a standout year for German Riesling, and this wine has received exceptional praise from critics. The 2005 Schloss Lieser Niederberg Helden Riesling Auslese Lange Goldkapsel has garnered impressive scores, including: * 96/100 - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate * 96/100 - Stephen Reinhardt (The Fine Wine Review) These high scores are a testament to the wine's quality and its immense aging potential. Parker described the wine as "stunningly pure and concentrated," and noted its "electric intensity and crystalline clarity." The Vintage and Vineyard: The 2005 vintage was characterized by a warm growing season with a cool, long autumn, which allowed for the development of fully ripe grapes with balanced acidity. The Niederberg Helden vineyard is a steep, south-facing slate-rich site that is considered a Grosses Gewächs (Grand Cru) vineyard by the VDP. It is known for producing wines with a classic Mosel character: a powerful core of fruit, precise minerality, and a vibrant, racy acidity that ensures decades of life. Tasting Notes and Cellar Condition: This wine is still in its youth, with a stunning combination of primary fruit and developing complexity. Expect a beautiful golden hue and a nose of ripe apricot, peach, and citrus, intertwined with classic slate minerality and a hint of botrytis. The palate is rich and luscious yet perfectly balanced by the wine's vibrant acidity, leading to a long, unforgettable finish. This bottle is in excellent condition, with a perfect fill level and a pristine capsule. Sourced directly from the Estate to our climate and humidity controlled wine cellar of OHMS - connoisseurs choice. This is a rare and exceptional offering for any serious collector of fine Riesling. Its provenance and critical acclaim make it a fantastic investment and a truly magnificent wine to cellar and enjoy for years to come.