2020 Weingut Markus Molitor Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Auslese ** (White Capsule)

Markus Molitor and the Zeltinger Sonnenuhr vineyard

Weingut Markus Molitor is one of the leading estates on the Mosel, with a strong focus on terroir expression, precision, and aging potential. Zeltinger Sonnenuhr is one of his most important top vineyards, situated on extremely steep slopes of pure, weathered blue slate. The southwest exposure ensures optimal sunlight, while the cool nights contribute to the high aromatic tension of the Riesling grape. This is where Molitor's most refined and structured wines are born.

Vinification and style of the Auslese *** White Capsule

The 2020 Auslese *** (White Capsule) is the result of a meticulous selection of perfectly ripe grapes with slight noble rot, sourced from old, deep-rooted vines. As is customary with Markus Molitor, the harvest is carried out manually, often in multiple harvests per plot. The grapes are pressed using a traditional basket press, and fermentation takes place exclusively with wild yeasts in large wooden barrels. The wine is aged on the fine lees for eight to ten months and is bottled under natural cork, unfiltered.

The "White Capsule" designation indicates a dry Auslese style , despite its impressive concentration. This wine possesses a powerful structure, yet with absolute finesse and pure terroir expression.

Robert Parker's Review – The Wine Advocate

Stephan Reinhardt rated this wine 98+ points in Robert Parker's Wine Advocate and called it an impressive wine with great potential. He describes the 2020 Auslese *** as intense, complex, and layered, with aromas of ripe fruit, candied lemon, ginger, and wet slate. On the palate, it is silky, muscular, powerful, yet perfectly balanced. Reinhardt calls this a wine of "great talent" that will truly express itself after at least ten years in the bottle. The wine is long, intense, and exceptionally complex – a true ageing wine. Recommended for 2030–2070 .

Color, smell and taste

In the glass, the wine displays a deep yellow color with brilliance. The bouquet opens with fragrant notes of lemon peel, candied peach, pickled ginger, and salty minerality. The palate is intensely concentrated, with a subtle tension between fruit, power, purity, and slate-like minerality. The structure is simultaneously muscular and refined. The finish is endless and precise, with a characteristic salty, dry profile.

Serving tips and aging potential

This wine deserves a generous decanter and a large Riesling glass to reveal its true character. Serve slightly chilled at around 9 degrees Celsius. Ideal from 2030 onwards, but easily keeps for more than five decades. This Auslese *** is one of those rare Rieslings that perfectly combines power, purity, and aging potential.

Would you like to order Markus Molitor wines online?

FACT: In the "Attachments" tab, you'll find the official fact sheet for this fine wine. We'll automatically send it to you when you order it. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount . You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at checkout. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway, with ample parking. Click here for our address.

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Wine and food pairings with 2020 Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Auslese ***

1. Slow-cooked lobster with beurre blanc
   The minerality and dry concentration of the wine enhance the sweet-salty character of the lobster.

2. Terrine of foie gras with citrus jelly
   The interplay between rich structure and fine acidity provides perfect balance to this classic luxury dish.

3. Ramen with miso, shiitake and sesame oil
   The savory umami and texture of this dish complement the tension in the wine beautifully.

4. Grilled sea bass with fennel and orange zest
   The wine's fresh acidity cuts effortlessly through the oily fish, accentuating its aromatic character.

5. Risotto with green asparagus and Parmesan
   The wine adds liveliness and depth to this creamy and soft dish.

6. Ravioli filled with goat cheese and lemon
   The freshness and precision of the wine give elegance to this subtle vegetarian dish.