2001 Müller-Catoir Haardter Burgergarten Riesling Spätlese

The A.P.#2134 bursts from the glass with white pepper, spice, and smoke aromas. On the palate, this broad, medium-bodied wine exhibits gorgeous layers of plump pears, red currants, apples, and raspberries. Its gorgeous fruit ("berries galore!" read my notes) are beautifully defined in this offering's rich, lush character. Consumers will need strong reading glasses to decipher Muller-Catoir's A.P. numbers (Amtliche Prufungsnummer, the licensing number that indicates a German wine has been subjected to the Qualitatswein testing), yet there are a number of different 2001 Riesling Spatlese Haardter Burgergartens. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2016. Importer: Terry Theise Estate Selections, imported by Michael Skurnik Wines, Inc., Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300