Archive: Germany: Rheinhessen

Balbach 1998 Riesling Eiswein Rheinhessen Nierstein Oelberg ($68). Wonderful vanilla bean note adds richness and texture to this sweet symphony of apricot, nectarine, and lime notes. Delicate but full-flavored, this is fabulous now and will continue to improve for six to eight more years. (Wine Tasting Party, 06/00)

Gunderloch 1998 Riesling Auslese Gold Cap Rheinhessen Nackenheim Rothenberg ($45). Definitely sweet, but miraculously structured, this Auslese has spicy dried apricot and dried peach layered with concentrated, super-sweet, rich fig, and slightly bitter wildflower honey. Incredibly good now, in eight years, and any time between. (Wine Tasting Party, 06/00)

J. & H.A. Strub 2002 Riesling Kabinett Rheinhessen Niersteiner ($15). Refreshing citrus and juicy, crisp apple fruit with plenty of mineral accents. Straightforward, without loads of complexity, but tasty and a good value. Ready to drink now. (Robyn’s Picks, 04/04)