Has my wine gone bad

[lawdawg131]

I have a bottle of German Josef Schloder 2003 Riesling Eiswein that has not been opened, and not been refridgerated. It has been sitting on a dresser for 5 years at room temperature standup, not on its side. I was wondering if the bottle is undrinkable now? I am not a very knowledgable wine person, so any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

[lawdawg131]

Thank you for all of your responses

[Bill Hunt]

Possibly not. Eiswein is very long lived, and can stand a bit of mis-treatment, similar to Port and the master, Madeiria (that's why it's so great to cook with - it's already been "cooked.").

BTW, I've had Eisweins from the '50s (though cellared), that were wonderful.

Still, I'm with the others, you can only know by drinking it. I'd chill it to ~ 50°F, but have a backup handy.

Hunt

[Brad Ballinger]

Generally, wines with higher sugar content are sturdier than those without. It may not be that bad.

[wineglas]

I bought a bunch of Joh Jos Prum from the 2002 Vintage a month ago and they had been sitting at a wine shop with room temp and beyond for a long time period.

They were all fine and good German Rieslings as Brad said can take a little more abuse.
Make sure to chill and let warm up in the glass for 15 minutes as people serve their whites way too cold.

[legourmettv]

Open it? taste it?

Have a back-up bottle, just in case.

Don't be afraid, or intimidated...

G.

[bubbles4me]

I agree, pop it open and taste it. 2003 was a warm vintage so the acids are a touch softer, not the best for long term cellaring and since it was not cellared I would have a back up just in case.