The 2005 Gruner Veltliner Kremser Freiheit, with its overt green bean, snap pea, and floral aromas, is more overtly Gruner Veltliner-typical than the Gartling. In the mouth, a rich peachy fruit and ore-like, savory sense of “the mineral” ally themselves to the flavors of legumes. Nutty, malty, rich low notes and bright lime citricity extend the range of expression, and this finishes with long, savory traces in all registers, if not quite the finesse or perfect balance of the Gartling. Certainly it represents another outstanding value and proves Nigl this year’s consummate master of the supposedly modest, introductory-level, low alcohol (in this instance 11.5%) wine. By the way, this wine and the Gartling – unlike all other Nigl 2005s – were vinified with cultured yeasts, which evidently did them no harm! Importer: Terry Theise Estate Selections, imported by Michael Skurnik Wines, Inc., Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300