2014 Weingut Spreitzer, Riesling, Estate Trocken, Rheingau Germany.
Spreitzer’s wonderful and delicate Rieslings seem to fly under the radar, but always deliver quality, finesse and value from their Estate in the Rheingau, one of the oldest continuing in winemaking in the region, stating back in 1641. Unlike the main Rheingau that is mostly mixed slates and quartzite based soils the Lenchen vines of Spreitzer grow out of a mix of clay, loess and loam, this makes for very refined and aromatic Riesling and while their sweeter wines at Kabinett and Spatlese are some of their best offerings, they do a fine set of Trockens, which are getting better with every passing vintage with their Grosses Gewachs pair, the Wisselbrunnen and Rosengarten being gorgeous dry wines, plus three underlings including this Estate Trocken, which should not be overlooked. With less wood than the Grand Crus the Spreitzer Riesling Estate Trocken is a fresh example of brisk and dry Riesling that has bright acidity, but also pleases the palate with pretty layers and a perfume of white flowers and tangy citrus. The palate is vibrant with lemon/lime, green apple, crisp melon and mandarin orange leading the way along with saline, white tea, steely mineral and a touch of earthy chalkiness. The upper level dry wines here at Spreitzer have a rich and classy oak influence, but this one delights for it’s purity and delicacy without losing it’s complexity or charm, and it is a steal at the price. This uplifting summery Riesling can be enjoyed with many cuisines and styles of food, it is so easy to love and is a great quaffer, drink this well crafted white over the next 3 to 5 years. Andreas and Bernd are making some fantastic wines, be sure to check all of their 2014’s, and in particular this expressive value priced dry unique Rheingau Riesling.
($17 Est.) 91 Points, grapelive
