2003 Niederhauser Hermannshohle Spatlese

Quite sweet but wonderfully pure and refreshing with excellent precision and no heatwave effect. No hurry to drink either. Some hazelnut flavour and a creamy texture. To be drunk before or after a meal. Careful food matching needed. It was fine with smoked salmon. (JR)

Liqueur-like presentation of berries, herbs and flowers in the nose and on the palate. Lots of fat and sap along with a dynamic interplay of distilled herbs and fruits, fruit preserves, lightly bitter pit fruit skin and citrus zest. Superb length. 2 stars.

Loads of fresh herbs intermingled with a myriad of spices are found in the aromatic profile of the 2003 Riesling Spatlese Niederhauser Hermannshohle. A bold, sultry wine, it unleashes powerful waves of pears, candied apples, spices, melon balls, raspberries, and red currants that conquer the taster’s palate. This offering’s stupendous flavor profile, depth, and sensual nature led me to write “sexylicious!” in my notebook. Yet, what makes this Niederhauser stand out most when compared to Donnhoff’s other 2003 Spatlesen is the extraordinary precision of its fruit. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2020. Bravo to Helmut Donnhoff for this magical line-up! Importer: Terry Theise Estate Selections, imported by Michael Skurnik Wines, Inc., Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300