Cherry blossom and buddleia, fresh quince and peach scent the Weil 2008 Kiedricher Turmberg Riesling Spatlese. At 8% alcohol, this displays a delicacy and vivacity that perfectly fit its liquid floral and fresh pit fruit character. Hints of ginger and a ready supply of fresh fruit acidity encourage the sense of refreshment and invigoration in a wine that epitomizes the virtues of its vintage and site. The grapes here were entirely healthy despite their high must weight, says Weil, and the wine is beautifully balanced, positively dynamic, and eloquently long despite sugar and acid levels (the latter nearly 10 grams) that look exaggerated on paper. This will remain ravishing for 15 or more years. Lasting from mid-October to mid-November, the 2008 harvest was relatively early and short by the standards of Weingut Robert Weil, if not by those prevailing in most German Riesling-growing establishments. Wilhelm Weil thought the changing ratio of malic to tartaric acid was critical during October, and that the relative increase in tartaric – and its eventual precipitation in almost unprecedented amounts in cask – is what made possible impeccably-balanced 2008s. “I think,” he asserts, “that the 2008s combine the advantages of 2006 and 2007: the stuffing and energy of 2006 with the purity and elegance of 2007.” Importer: Loosen Brothers, Portland, OR tel. (510) 864-7255

A ripe, rich style, showing peach, tarte tatin, honey and grapefruit notes. There's fine structure, keeping this well-defined and balanced, with a lingering finish. Drink now through 2020. 250 cases made.??–BS??Region: Germany / Rheingau Select to Add