2005 Franz Hirtzberger Riesling Hochrain Smaragd

The 2005 Riesling Smaragd Hochrain offers remarkable richness of fruit allied to magnificent, multidimensional expression of minerality as salt, pepper, broth, ore, and wet stone, in a manner that seems to reflect the layered mica schiste, sand, and clay of this site. Grapefruit, lemon, and brown spice notes in the nose usher in a palate with dynamic interplay of citrus, pit fruit, spice, and mineral. This wine is the epitome of “interplay.” I would feel comfortable – not to mention privileged – to follow it for 8-10 years in the cellar. Also recommended: 2005 Gruner Veltliner Steinfeder Donaugarten (not available; 85). Importer: Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700