Harvested a week later than this year’s Wachtberg, the Salomon 2007 Gruner Veltliner Wieden Tradition displays much more generous fruit – assuming one can stretch “fruit” to incorporate beet root and snap peas. Iris-like floral notes waft alluringly throughout and there is a nutty depth that – along with this wine’s creamy texture – puts one a bit in mind of Pinot Blanc. This will offer soothing satisfaction for at least the next 4-5 years. You constantly had to change your plans during harvest, commented Berthold Salomon, whose crew picked from late September well into November.Importer: Terry Theise Estate Selections, imported by Michael Skurnik Wines, Inc., Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300

A wine that brings out the peppery character of Gruner, layering this on top of the ripe pear and green plum fruit flavors. The acidity gives a lift to the whole texture, its freshness finishing the wine vividly. Glass stopper.——R.V.(5/1/2009)—— 87