KRACHER 'Weinlaubenhof' Trockenbeerenauslese No 5 Scheurebe Zwischen den Seen 'Nouvelle Vague' 1999 HALF (losn)

Description

IN BRIEF
The Kracher 'Weinlaubenhof' Trockenbeerenauslese No 5 Scheurebe Zwischen den Seen 'Nouvelle Vague' 1999 is an outstanding dessert wine from respected Austrian winemaker Alois Kracher, renowned for crafting exceptional sweet wines. This Trockenbeerenauslese highlights the unique qualities of the Scheurebe grape, known for its complexity and aromatic richness. The 1999 vintage benefits from optimal conditions that fostered noble rot (Botrytis cinerea), resulting in a wine with intense concentration. In the glass, it presents a deep golden hue, offering enticing aromas of ripe peach, apricot, and floral notes, complemented by hints of honey and spice. The palate showcases luxurious sweetness balanced with lively acidity, making it ideal for pairing with desserts, cheeses, or savoring on its own.

ABOUT THIS WINE
The Kracher 'Weinlaubenhof' Trockenbeerenauslese No 5 Scheurebe Zwischen den Seen 'Nouvelle Vague' 1999 is an outstanding dessert wine from one of Austria’s most revered producers, Alois Kracher. Known for his exceptional skills in crafting high-quality sweet wines, Kracher’s Trockenbeerenauslese showcases the unique characteristics of the Scheurebe grape, which is renowned for its ability to produce complex and aromatic dessert wines.

The 1999 vintage is particularly notable, benefiting from optimal conditions that allowed for the development of noble rot (Botrytis cinerea), which is essential for achieving the intense concentration and complexity characteristic of Trockenbeerenauslese. In the glass, this wine displays a deep golden colour, indicative of its richness and sumptuous nature.

On the nose, the wine is likely to offer an enticing bouquet filled with aromas of ripe stone fruits, such as peach and apricot, intermingled with floral notes and the signature spice associated with botrytis. Hints of honey and citrus also emerge, adding to the aromatic complexity.

On the palate, the Kracher Trockenbeerenauslese No 5 Scheurebe delivers a luxurious experience, with intense flavours of concentrated fruit complemented by a luscious sweetness. The residual sugar, balanced by bright acidity, creates a refreshing lift, ensuring that the wine feels elegant rather than cloying. The texture is typically rich and viscous, contributing to a mouthfeel that is both smooth and indulgent.

This dessert wine pairs beautifully with various culinary delights, such as fruit tarts, rich pastries, or blue cheeses, but it can also be enjoyed on its own as a decadent treat.

In summary, the Kracher 'Weinlaubenhof' Trockenbeerenauslese No 5 Scheurebe Zwischen den Seen 'Nouvelle Vague' 1999 is a remarkable dessert wine that exemplifies the artistry of winemaking and the potential of the Scheurebe grape. With its captivating aromas, intense flavours, and delightful balance, it is a true gem for any wine enthusiast.

THE WINE ADVOCATE 95 points
Drink Date 2002 - 2030
The spicy 1999 #5 Scheurebe Zwischen Den Seen Trockenbeerenauslese offers aromatics reminiscent of juniper berries, cloves, and over-ripe peaches. This well-delineated yet jellied wine is rich, highly concentrated, dense, and prodigiously long.

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ABOUT KRACHER
Kracher Winery, located in the Seewinkel area of Burgenland, Austria, is celebrated for its outstanding sweet wines, particularly Beerenauslese and Trockenbeerenauslese. The unique climatic conditions of the region, driven by Lake Neusiedl, create a perfect environment for the development of Botrytis cinerea, or noble rot, which is essential for producing these exquisite wines. The warm Pannonian climate, combined with the evening fog, facilitates a humid atmosphere conducive to the formation of this beneficial fungus.

Founded by Alois Kracher, the winery excels in crafting a range of wines from various grape varieties, including Welschriesling, Chardonnay, Traminer, Scheurebe, Muskat-Ottonel, and occasionally Zweigelt. Each year, Kracher produces 10 to 15 different styles of Trockenbeerenauslese wines, showcasing the diversity and richness of these varietals.

Kracher's portfolio features two primary lines: "Zwischen den Seen" and "Nouvelle Vague." The "Zwischen den Seen" wines are aged in large wooden barrels or stainless steel tanks, undergoing extended yeast contact to enhance freshness and preserve the primary grape aromas. In contrast, the "Nouvelle Vague" line emphasizes barrique aging, resulting in wines that exhibit vivacity, depth, and spiciness.

Alois Kracher’s dedication to winemaking earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious "Wine Maker of the Year" title from Wine Magazine in Great Britain, awarded on seven occasions. His innovative techniques and commitment to quality positioned him as a key ambassador for Austrian wine globally.

Since Alois's passing in December 2007, his legacy continues through his son Gerhard, alongside his partner Yvonne and mother Michaela, who collectively uphold the family’s tradition of excellence in winemaking, ensuring that Kracher remains a vital name in the world of fine wine.