2014 Weingut Leitz, Riesling Kabinett, Rudesheimer Klosterlay, Rheingau Germany.
The wonderfully aromatic and lively Rudesheimer Klosterlay Kabinett delivers fresh and vibrant flavors that reflect the terroir and vintage perfectly with pretty white rose petal, green apple, tangy melon, lime and light tropical notes with a hint of dried honey, wet stones and a touch of salty loam. The sugar level never intrudes and while there is a kiss of sweetness this is a pleasingly balanced Riesling that is easily quaffed. The Klosterlay is not as intense as Rudesheimer Berg, but it’s mix of loess, clay and dusting of quartzite and weathered slate makes for an interesting mix and allows this fun Riesling to have a core of seriousness and vigor, as well as being forward and charming in style, the balance of acid, sugar and mineral elements are really dialed in. This is quality stuff from Johannes Leitz, who has a brilliant lineup of wines on offer including two fine sparkling wines, a Riesling Sekt and a Pinot Noir Rose, some fine Trockens, Grand Cru and Village, and some off dry beauties like this one, as well as his fantastic Rudesheimer Berg Kaisersteinfels Terrassen and the sexy Dragonstone. Johannnes’ Spatlese and Auslese bottlings are legandary and should grace a few cellars! Look for a nice long drinking window on this Klosterlay Kabinett, though alluring now, it should develop nicely for 3 to 5 years picking up stone fruit and secondary layers and last another 12 to 16 years no problem.
($25 Est.) 91 Points, grapelive
