The 1997 Gewurztraminer Furstentum Vendange Tardive has an unyielding, muted nose as well as a magnificently spicy, full-bodied personality. Its highly-expressive flavor profile is hedonistic, velvety-textured, and loaded with raspberry coulis, perfume, and lychees. This powerfully concentrated wine will require a year or two of cellaring for its aromas to develop and should be consumed over the following decade.Since Laurence Faller took over the winemaking duties at Domaine Weinbach (1993/94) there have been marked stylistic changes to the wines. They remain extremely well-made, rich, and concentrated yet are less generous in their youth than under the former winemaker's regime. I am, however, convinced that the wines presently being produced at this famed estate will be longer-lived than those from the past.Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel (205) 980-8802.