Interesting note. I visited Thörle earlier this week and in general was very impressed with the wines. Especially the Rieslings and the Spätburgunders. Came here to gush.
The 2022 Probstey Silvaner was interesting, but I found the oaky nose distracting. Christoph emphasized its development and integration of those elements over time, and I might like it more in the future. Which makes your note interesting. But of course these preferences all vary!
I was also a bit confused by the Kalk & Kreide (Chardonnay Weissburgunder blend). In general, I don't get those blends and I remain less than enthusiastic about Chardonnay in Germany. But LF loves K&K and it definitely was an intriguing combination of the two grapes. Maybe I'll be convinced later.
But having only tasted the lower level Spätburgunders prior to the visit, I came away very impressed with the full range. 2021 Probstey Spätburgunder so silky and attractive, combining seductive fruit with defined structure. 2021 Hölle Spätburgunder also impressive but maybe tougher to read at the moment.
Rieslings also impressive up and down the lineup. Great combination of ripe juicy fruit with minerality, freshness and definition. At the top, Probstey and Hölle seem like fascinating counterparts to compare what the Rheinhessen can offer.
