Wines Unspecified Golden Spiral - Ice, auslese

Viniou Reviews

Golden Spiral’s Cuvée Ice auslese comes from the acclaimed Rheingau region of Germany, an area renowned for its mastery of sweet white wines. As a non-vintage cuvée, this wine relies on blending select grapes and harvests to maintain a consistent style across years. The "Auslese" designation indicates that the grapes are picked late in the season, resulting in concentrated sugars and potent, layered aromas. The “Ice” component suggests selective harvesting during the first frost, a process that yields a luscious, naturally sweet wine with vivid acidity and complexity. Expect an expressive bouquet marked by ripe stone fruits—think apricot and peach—honeyed notes, and delicate floral hints, all underpinned by the signature freshness and minerality typical of Rheingau terroirs.

Rheingau stretches along the north bank of the Rhine River, enjoying a temperate continental climate with long, sunny autumns. This provides ideal conditions for the noble rot (botrytis cinerea) and late harvests required for fine sweet wines like auslese. The predominance of south-facing slopes, combined with the reflective influence of the river and soils rich in slate and loess, benefits grape maturation and the development of complex aromas. The region boasts a storied viticultural history, being one of Germany’s cradle regions for quality winemaking dating back to the Middle Ages. Rheingau’s specialisation in expressive Rieslings and noble sweet wines has earned it a place of honour among global wine enthusiasts.

Pair this Golden Spiral Cuvée Ice auslese with moderately sweet or salty dishes to harmonise or accentuate its intensity. Classic matches include blue cheeses (like Roquefort or Stilton), foie gras terrine, or a simple tarte tatin. If you prefer a local pairing, try traditional German baked apple with almonds, or pair it with a rich apfelstrudel. Its bright acidity is also perfect for balancing spicy Asian cuisine or adding luxury to fruit-based desserts.

Serve this wine well chilled, ideally between 8 and 10°C, to accentuate its vibrancy and prevent the sweetness from becoming cloying. Decanting is unnecessary; simply pour into small glasses and savour its layers alongside good company.