With the 2005 Saarburger Rausch Riesling Auslese Long Gold Capsule A.P. #5, an auction cuvee, we enter the realm of Trockenbeerenauslese must weight. A spiritous expression of pit fruits, white raisin, and an ominous smokiness in the nose alerts one to the element of botrytis and to the astonishing level of concentration that follows. One has the impression of an implosion of pineapple, lemon, and grapefruit into an intensely citric, severe focal point that practically sears the palate. The finish is correspondingly long and intense, featuring layers of dried, fresh and caramelized pit fruits, almond paste, lemon meringue, and persistently fresh citrus. This fabulous wine should be well worth cellaring for three to four decades – in other words, longer than most readers need to worry about! Also recommended: 2005 Riesling ($16.00; 85+?).Importer: Rudi Wiest, Cellars International, Carlsbad, CA; tel. 800-596-9463