Schloss Schönborn
Erbacher Marcobrunn Kabinett Riesling
Not an unusual sight. An older cork finished German wine that leaked and stained the label. In this case an 11 year old 375ml. Also not unusual for this occurrence, the wine was perfectly fine - in fact, outstanding! It was explained to me many years ago that German wine law required full 375 or 750ml, etc. to be filled to that level and that other countries filled 10ml less. When you fill right up to the cork you’re risking leakage even when non-damaging temperatures get slightly warmer than cool for just a short period of time. Today, the great majority of German wines are bottled under screw cap so this is hardly an issue nowadays. Still, when you find a German leaker, don’t assume it’s spoiled. Most likely it’s not and it’s a shame when these irreplaceable wines are not popped and given a chance to shine.
Not an unusual sight. An older cork finished German wine that leaked and stained the label. In this case an 11 year old 375ml. Also not unusual for this occurrence, the wine was perfectly fine - in fact, outstanding! It was explained to me many years ago that German wine law required full 375 or 750ml, etc. to be filled to that level and that other countries filled 10ml less. When you fill right up to the cork you’re risking leakage even when non-damaging temperatures get slightly warmer than cool for just a short period of time. Today, the great majority of German wines are bottled under screw cap so this is hardly an issue nowadays. Still, when you find a German leaker, don’t assume it’s spoiled. Most likely it’s not and it’s a shame when these irreplaceable wines are not popped and given a chance to shine.
Aug 29th, 2018