Grapelive Wine of the Week

By Kerry Winslow

***

2010 Weingut Spreitzer Riesling “Winkeler Jusuitengarten” Spatlese, Rheingau, Germany.*
Andreas Spreitzer is a rising star in the world of Riesling and after trying through his range of 2009 and 2010 vintages it is easy to see why. Spreitzer’s wines are crystal clear, focused and razor sharp in structure with pureness of fruit that is almost magical, and not in the least bit sterile or cold, these wines show terroir, depth and elegance. The 2009’s are full and round with extra dimension that the year provided, it was truly a nature’s vintage, while the 2010 was a winemaker’s time to shine and Andrea’s got it perfect with wines of extract and complexities, but with extremely vibrant acidities that give intensity and verve. Spreitzer’s Winkeler Jusuitengarden is a wonderful bold Riesling with fullness, grip and lovely fruit, it feels like a trocken Spatlese, but it does retain a certain sweetness and I imagine the must weight could have reached Auslese levels. The nose has bright citrus, white flowers and ginger leading to a round, but firm palate of white peach, apricot, green apple and passion fruit while lime, lychee and pineapple play in the honeyed background all wrapped in zesty fresh acidity. Look for this fantastic wine to gain in every way over the next decade, this is only the beginning of the pleasures to come. I can see lots of mineral, petrol, rose oil and honeycomb showing up in the next few years, again this is an impressive Riesling that should stand the test of time, giving much joy along the way. Also, check out his QbA, Kabinett and Spatlese 2009’s they are a steal and are available now!

*Coming late summer/fall of 2011
($36 Est.) 94 Points, grapelive

***

By admin