A superb VT, the 2001 Tokay-Pinot Gris Altenbourg Vendanges Tardives explodes from the glass with super-ripe yellow fruits and massive quantities of spices. This exceptional wine exhibits loads of well-integrated botrytis, apricots, peaches, smoky minerals, white pepper, and hints of quince in its pure, powerful, character. Medium to full-bodied, lush, and deep, it also reveals an admirable long, fruit-filled finish. Projected maturity: 2006-2018. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802

Smoked mirabelles are found in the aromatic profile of the 2000 Tokay-Pinot Gris Altenbourg Vendanges Tardives (80 grams of residual sugar per liter). This thick, medium to full-bodied wine is jam-packed with satin textured tropical fruits. Lush and soft, its plump, flavorful character is extended through its long finish. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2016. According to Laurence Faller, this highly regarded estate's winemaker, "unquestionably 2000 must be considered one of the finest vintages of the last decade. It reminds me of 1998 but with more botrytis, yet not too much."Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802