Tasting Notes

Wine Spectator - 2001 vintage

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Reichsrat von Buhl (Pfalz region)

Riesling Spätlese Trocken Forster Ungeheuer 2001
Fresh and delicate, with a peach note and citrus accents on an open, accessible framework backed by a lively structure. It falls off on the finish. Drink now. 400 cases made. (BS), Price: $30, Score: 87 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Kabinett Armand 2001
Compact and dryish in style, with white pepper, nutmeg and apple notes set against a moderately firm structure. Good lingering finish. Drink now through 2008. 1,200 cases made. (BS), Price: $19, Score: 87 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Spätlese Trocken 2001
Bright and focused, with moderate flavors of apple, peach and citrus on an elegant, firm frame. Drink now. 800 cases made. (BS), Price: $25, Score: 88 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling QbA Halbtrocken 2001
Tasting like apple and cinnamon, this white coats the mouth, enhancing to the vivid structure. Moderate depth and length. Best from 2004 through 2007. 1,200 cases made. (BS), Price: $16, Score: 88 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Spätlese Trocken Ruppertsberger Reiterpfad 2001
Like biting into an orange, this evokes tangy citrus notes, along with apricot and white pepper flavors, all backed by a bracing acidity that never intrudes on the voluptuous presentation. Lovely finish. Drink now through 2006. 100 cases made. (BS), Price: $34, Score: 92 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Spätlese Forster Jesuitengarten 2001
More like an auslese in style, this is rich and concentrated with apricot and salty mineral flavors. A touch austere today, but it has density and purity, finishing with Eastern spice accents. Best from 2004 through 2012. 400 cases made. (BS), Price: $30, Score: 92 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Mönchhof - Robert Eymael (Mosel valley)

Riesling Auslese Ürziger Würzgarten Fuder 30 2001
Firm and focused, with apple and slate notes riding a wave of acidity in this live wire version. A little diffuse though. Best from 2005 through 2015. 100 cases made. (BS), Price: $43, Score: 88 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Auslese Gold Cap Erdener Prälat (AP 13) 2001
A hint of candied citrus peel, but essentially a fresh, vivid version, with apple, quince and chamomile notes. Good lingering finish. Just a little diffuse. Drink now through 2015. 150 cases made. (BS), Price: $50, Score: 89 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Kabinett Ürziger Würzgarten Astor 2001
Delicate and filigreed, offering ripe peach, black currant and nectarine flavors. Rich and balanced, with a mineral salt aftertaste. Drink now through 2008. 1,000 cases made. (BS), Price: $19, Score: 89 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Estate Riesling 2001
Just like biting into a crunchy apple (think Cortland or Winesap), with a dash of lime and slate thrown into the mix. This has zip and length too. Drink now through 2007. 6,000 cases made. (BS), Price: $14, Score: 89 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Auslese Gold Cap Erdener Prälat (AP 15) 2001
Auction wine. A jolt of electricity. Lighter in style, yet balanced and with everything in the right proportion. Racy in structure, supporting the apple, peach and mineral flavors. Drink now through 2015. (BS), Price: $NA, Score: 93 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Auslese Erdener Treppchen 2001
Very creamy in texture, displaying pastry and vanilla accents to the citrus, herb and stone flavors. Dense and a bit unyielding today, but with promise for the future. Best from 2005 through 2015. 250 cases made. (BS), Price: $43, Score: 93 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Eiswein Gold Cap Ürziger Würzgarten 2001
High-toned, with pear, floral and red berry aromas and flavors making for a distinctive Riesling eiswein. Elegant, yet concentrated, with a bracing structure keeping it all fresh. Drink now through 2015. 25 cases made. (BS), Price: $133, Score: 94 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Rudolf Fürst (Franken region)

Riesling Spätlese Trocken Bürgstadt Centgrafenberg 2001
A big, dry white, austere in flavor, it barely hints at pear and peach, with an underlying citrus and mineral tang. It's very good, but lacks the focus and harmony of the best. Best from 2004 through 2007. 300 cases made. (BS), Price: $34, Score: 88 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Spätlese Trocken Bürgstadt Centgrafenberg R 2001
On the sweet side of dry, with wonderful concentration and balance, this combines nut oil, stone and peach flavors with a richness and firm structure. Try with pork or veal. Drink now through 2007. 150 cases made. (BS), Price: $39, Score: 89 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Spätlese Gold Cap Bürgstadt Centgrafenberg 2001
A lot of fruit here?apricot and some orange and honey from botrytis. A big, powerful spätlese, not for everyone, yet impressive and would stand up to some rich food. Drink now through 2012. 100 cases made. (BS), Price: $36, Score: 92 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Gunderloch (Rheinhessen region)

Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese Nackenheim Rothenberg 2001
Spellbinding. Forest underbrush after the rain comes to mind while smelling this ethereal Riesling. Then a kaleidoscope of mint, caramel, pineapple, lemon candy and stone wash over the palate, melting away into an endless finish of mineral and tropical fruit. Each sip offers a different nuance. Best from 2005 through 2030. 20 cases made. (BS), Price: $259, Score: 100 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Kabinett Jean-Baptiste 2001
Peach, apple and mineral flavors mingle in this bright, moderately firm kabinett. Open and accessible, with a juicy finish. Drink now through 2006. 4,000 cases made. (BS), Price: $19, Score: 88 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling QbA Trocken 2001
Sleek, with floral and pineapple aromas and flavors and mineral accents. Well-balanced, this is an elegant wine, with a touch of earthiness on the finish. Drink now through 2006. 600 cases imported. (BS), Price: $18, Score: 88 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Spätlese Nackenheim Rothenberg 2001
Exotic and pungent, exploding from the glass with passion fruit, papaya, apricot and mineral aromas and flavors, all on an airy texture and firm structure. Really dense and long on the palate. Drink now through 2012. 600 cases made. (BS), Price: $30, Score: 92 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Auslese Nackenheim Rothenberg 2001
Just delicious. Packed with exotic tropical fruit and spice flavors, all displayed on a gossamer texture, this is a Riesling expressing both its [i]terroir[n] and the variety's multifaceted character. The vibrant yet well-integrated structure holds it all together. Drink now through 2015. 400 cases made. (BS), Price: $40, Score: Highly Recommended: 95 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Auslese Gold Cap Nackenheim Rothenberg 2001
Intense and high-toned, with pineapple, honey, spice and earth highlighting the flavor spectrum. A little out of sorts today. Its lovely texture and finesse revealed itself with air, but this needs time. Great finish. Drink now through 2010. 150 cases made. (BS), Price: $52, Score: 96 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Beerenauslese Nackenheim Rothenberg 2001
Distinctive. Laced with botrytis, this is like eating a lemon and spice candy. There are mineral notes too, and the luscious texture is offset by a wave of mouthwatering acidity. This really resonates on the palate, with a fine lingering finish. Drink now through 2020. 40 cases made. (BS), Price: $130, Score: 98 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Fritz Haag (Mosel valley)

Riesling Kabinett Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr 2001
Pure and well-defined flavors of apple and slate mark this bracing, tangy '01 Riesling. It has density on a delicate frame and mouthwatering finish, with a subtle, lingering aftertase. Drink now through 2008. 500 cases made. (BS), Price: $26, Score: 90 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Spätlese Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr 2001
Dense and unevolved, displaying concentrated apple, pear and mineral notes, echoing the apple and picking up a green tea note on the finish. Backed by a firm structure. This needs time. Best from 2004 through 2012. 400 cases made. (BS), Price: $34, Score: 91 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Auslese Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr (AP 10) 2001
A sleek white, packed with slate and spice notes on a rich, lightweight frame. The texture picks up a creaminess, and the aftertaste evokes vanilla custard and slate. Drink now through 2012. 100 cases made. (BS), Price: $49, Score: 93 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Beerenauslese Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr 2001
Succulent, beautifully balanced and lilting, it's all charm, flashing apricot, honey and peach notes like sunlight reflecting on water. There's plenty of acidity here, but it's very approachable now. Terrific finish. Drink now through 2018. 40 cases made. (BS), Price: $180, Score: 97 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese Long Gold Cap Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr 2001
Fabulous. A dramatic mix of ripe pear, apricot, honey and slate aromas and flavors and a delicate, ephemeral structure result in this sublime wine. It seems weightless, yet the finish goes on and on. A great Mosel Riesling in a great vintage. (Auction wine). Drink now through 2030. 20 cases made. (BS), Price: $NA, Score: 99 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Reinhold Haart (Mosel valley)

Riesling Auslese Piesporter Domherr 2001
A focused, lithe Riesling showing pristine peach, citrus and slate notes on a succulent, open structure. It doesn't crackle, but it's deftly balanced. Drink now through 2010. 167 cases made. (BS), Price: $42, Score: 90 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Kabinett Piesporter Goldtröpfchen 2001
Round, ripe and packed with complex aromas and flavors of peach, orange, lime and slate, this is a serious kabinett. Its richness is offset by a vivid structure, keeping it all focused through the long finish. Drink now through 2010. 225 cases made. (BS), Price: $23, Score: 91 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Auslese Piesporter Goldtröpfchen 2001
Gorgeous aromas and flavors of peach and slate ooze from this silky-smooth auslese. Plump and juicy, on a light-bodied frame, with a vibrant structure and mouthcoating density. Long aftertaste of mineral salts and spice. Drink now through 2012. 267 cases made. (BS), Price: $42, Score: 94 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Auslese Gold Cap Piesporter Goldtröpfchen 2001
Absolutely gorgeous. Pure, lighter than air and packed with apricot, honey, smoke and mineral aromas and flavors that last and last until the long smoky finish. No rough edges here, just a cashmere-textured pure Riesling. (Auction wine). Drink now through 2012. 34 cases made. (BS), Price: $NA, Score: 98 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese Piesporter Goldtröpfchen 2001
Delicious, lush and expressive, while extremely light on its feet. Mostly honey and apricot today, with a firm structure and fabulous harmony. (Auction wine). Best from 2005 through 2025. 10 cases made. (BS), Price: $NA, Score: 98 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

von Hövel (Saar valley)

Riesling Spätlese Oberemmeler Hütte 2001
A touch drier than most spätlesen, this '01 smells like bread dough and the yeasty note continues on the palate. The peach and apple components are muted, although there's density and a lovely structure supporting it all. Needs time. Best from 2005 through 2012. 750 cases made. (BS), Price: $24, Score: 90 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Kabinett Oberemmeler Hütte 2001
Light and juicy, with an open texture providing the backdrop for the apple, lime and mineral flavors. This has a firm structure and length, followed by a long mineral-tinged aftertaste. Drink now through 2010. 584 cases made. (BS), Price: $20, Score: 90 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Auslese* Oberemmeler Hütte 2001
Round and succulent, revealing peach, passion fruit and smoky, mineral notes. The underlying acidity needs time to integrate with the up-front fruitiness. (Auction wine). Best from 2005 through 2015. 167 cases made. (BS), Price: $NA, Score: 92 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Auslese Long Gold Cap Oberemmeler Hütte 2001
Intensely flavored and exotic, featuring spicy apple, pear and clear, pure botrytis accents of orange peel and honey. All this layered on an ethereal frame with seamless integration. The finish just sucks all the moisture out of your mouth. (Auction wine). Best from 2005 through 2020. 50 cases made. (BS), Price: $NA, Score: 97 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Franz Künstler (Rheingau region)

Riesling QbA Halbtrocken 2001
Medium-bodied and broad, with muted apple, white peach and spice flavors on a moderately firm structure. Good density, just lacks expression. Drink now through 2005. 1,260 cases made. (BS), Price: $19, Score: 86 pts, WinespectatorIssue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Eiswein Gold Cap Hochheimer Hölle 2001

Balanced on the soft side, with caramel, mushroom and apricot notes, this tastes chunky and lacks zip. Drink now. 100 cases made. (BS), Price: $140, Score: 86 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Kabinett Hochheimer Reichstal 2001
Tasty, but a little diffuse in its apple, peach and spice flavors. It lacks a little focus, despite the firm structure. Drink now through 2008. 390 cases made. (BS), Price: $22, Score: 86 pts, WinespectatorIssue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Auslese Gold Cap Hochheimer Hölle 2001
Ripe and exotic, featuring apricot, honey, spice and citrus notes, very appealing and tasty now. It has firm acidity and an open texture, followed by a long finish. Lacks harmony. Drink now through 2008. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 120 cases made. (BS), Price: $62, Score: 89 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Auslese Trocken Hochheimer Hölle 2001
Sinewy and powerful, but more austere in character, with white pepper, cassis and citrus flavors on a rich texture. The searing acidity leaves a mouthwatering impression. This needs time to come together. Drink now through 2006. 670 cases made. (BS), Price: $68, Score: 90 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Spätlese Trocken Hochheimer Hölle 2001
A terrific dry style, sumptuous and full of apricot, peach and citrus notes, ending with a salty mineral tang. Medium-bodied and almost creamy in texture, this has the weight and density that many dry German Rieslings lack. Drink now through 2006. 440 cases made. (BS), Price: $44, Score: 91 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Spätlese Hochheimer Kirchenstück 2001
Plenty of sweetness here, but also bracing acidity for balance, while the flavors are intense?honey, grapefruit, lime and mineral?all packed onto a sleek structure. Not the harmony of the best, but built for the long haul. Best from 2005 through 2015. 160 cases made. (BS), Price: $37, Score: 92 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Auslese Trocken Hochheimer Kirchenstück 2001
A terrific dry Riesling, bursting with ripe fruit and an ample weight, very balanced and harmonious. The flavors evoke peach, apricot and mineral, with spice accents, all supported by a lively structure. Drink now through 2006. 230 cases made. (BS), Price: $87, Score: 93 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Eiswein Gold Cap Hochheimer Kirchenstück 2001
Rich, focused and packed with apricot, orange and honey flavors that remain elegant and clear, integrating seamlessly with the lush texture and bright structure. Drink now through 2015. 110 cases made. (BS), Price: $149, Score: 95 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Schloss Lieser (Mosel valley)

Riesling QbA 2001
Plenty of floral and creamy notes, accented by an apple flavor, mark this sleek white. Lean, it picks up an apple-skin note on the finish. Drink now through 2006. 400 cases made. (BS), Price: $15, Score: 87 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Auslese Lieser Niederberg Helden 2001
Rich and juicy, with apple and peach notes set against a vibrant structure. A little more obvious in style, with a slight astringency on the finish. Drink now through 2008. 200 cases made. (BS), Price: $30, Score: 90 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Kabinett 2001
Lovely harmony and finesse. Crystal clear and pure in its floral, peach and slate notes, all unfolding on a silky-smooth texture. It's all backed by a vibrant, well-integrated acidity, ending in a long, mineral-infused aftertaste. Drink now through 2010. 400 cases made. (BS), Price: $19, Score: 91 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Auslese** Lieser Niederberg Helden 2001
Pure and light on its feet, with peach and apricot notes on a round, succulent profile. This is open-knit and forward, thus enjoyable now and in the medium term. Drink now through 2009. 100 cases made. (BS), Price: $42, Score: 91 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Spätlese Lieser Niederberg Helden 2001
Gorgeous. Fireworks of tropical fruit, peach, lime and slate aromas and flavors, on a generous yet elegant profile. Lively acidity and a smooth texture complete the package. Only the long, mineral-drenched aftertaste suggests holding this Riesling for several years to experience its full charm. Drink now through 2015. 300 cases made. (BS), Price: $25, Score: 92 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Auslese*** Lieser Niederberg Helden 2001
Intense and concentrated, with mouthcoating flavors of apricot, honey and candied citrus peel covering the bright structure today. Lovely clarity and finesse. Give this some time to integrate. (Auction wine). Best from 2005 through 2015. 50 cases made. (BS), Price: $NA, Score: 94 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Beerenauslese Lieser Niederberg Helden 2001
Round and juicy, with pear, peach and spice notes mingling in the rich texture and open-knit structure. It has vivid acidity at this stage, yet enjoyable, but will only get better with age. Drink now through 2017. 40 cases made. (BS), Price: $115, Score: 97 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Milz-Laurentiushof (Mosel valley)

Riesling Spätlese Trittenheimer Leiterchen 2001
Beautiful balance marks this sleek Riesling, whose apple, peach and citrus notes are accented by mineral. It's all vivid and tightly wound, courtesy of the brisk acidity. Drink now through 2010. 90 cases made. (BS), Price: $28, Score: 90 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Kabinett Neumagener Nusswingert 2001
Grabs your attention with its vibrant structure, a fine setting for the grapefruit, apple and slate notes. It ends with a resonating twang, setting you up for another sip. Drink now through 2010. 175 cases made. (BS), Price: $20, Score: 90 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Auslese Trittenheimer Leiterchen 2001
Aromas of warm, toasted cinnamon, ginger and vanilla segue into peach and apricot on the palate in this crystalline Riesling. An exotic accent adds complexity, and the finish is long. Drink now through 2015. 100 cases made. (BS), Price: $34, Score: 91 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Spätlese Trittenheimer Felsenkopf 2001
Superb. Wonderful harmony and purity highlight the intense slate, apple and peach notes. It's tight and dense, with a persistence of flavors right through the long, mouthwatering finish. Drink now through 2015. 90 cases made. (BS), Price: $28, Score: 92 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Spätlese Trittenheimer Altärchen 2001
Racy and vibrant, this sports lemon candy and apple aromas and flavors, packed into a delicate frame. Keeps your attention from beginning to long finish. Needs time to strut its stuff. Best from 2004 through 2015. 225 cases made. (BS), Price: $28, Score: 92 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Eiswein Gold Cap Trittenheimer Apotheke 2001
Very sleek. A hint of herbs adds nuance to the peach and honey flavors here, all matched to a creamy texture, while the firm structure keeps it all lively and mouthwatering. Good length. Drink now through 2015. 38 cases made. (BS), Price: $96, Score: 94 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Auslese Gold Cap Trittenheimer Apotheke 2001
Plenty of botrytis here, lending gingerbread and floral aromas, honey and citrus peel flavors. It's all draped across a succulent texture and backed by a vibrant structure. (Auction wine). Drink now through 2017. 47 cases made. (BS), Price: $NA, Score: 97 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Pfeffingen (Pfalz region)

Riesling Kabinett Halbtrocken Pfeffo 2001
A substantial white, with medium weight behind its lanolin, apple and spice flavors, displaying personality and persistence. Not a blockbuster, yet satisfying. Drink now through 2006. 320 cases made. (BS), Price: $19, Score: 88 pts, Winespectator Issue: Feb 28, 2003

Riesling Spätlese Trocken Gold Cap Ungstein Weilberg 2001
Very impressive and powerful, if a touch austere. A full-bodied, nearly bone-dry style with dense flavors of peach, apple and mineral backed by a firm structure. It picks up some orange and grapefruit notes midpalate, ending with a firm, mineral finish. Best from 2004 through 2008. 320 cases made. (BS), Price: $36, Score: 90 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Spätlese 2001
Racy and very tightly wound, yet dense and packed with peach, spice and mineral flavors. The finish is so firm it almost dries out the mouth. Best from 2004 through 2012. 450 cases made. (BS), Price: $24, Score: 91 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling QbA Trocken 2001
Broad, yet light on its feet, this dry Riesling offers fresh peach, lemon and mineral aromas and flavors on a pure, firm structure. Really mouthcoating and intense, with a long finish. Drink now through 2006. 450 cases made. (BS), Price: $15, Score: 91 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Joh. Jos. Prüm (Mosel valley)

Riesling Kabinett 2001
There's a nice pear flavor, with a hint of mineral accent, but a lot of carbonic gas too. It's very light, with a balanced profile. Drink now through 2005. 800 cases made. (BS), Price: $17, Score: 87 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Kabinett Wehlener Sonnenuhr 2001
Beautiful. Spicy and exotic, evoking vanilla, banana and tropical fruit aromas and flavors married to a vibrant structure and harmonious texture. It's all presented in an elegant package. Drink now through 2010. 580 cases made. (BS), Price: $22, Score: 92 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Spätlese Graacher Himmelreich 2001
Smart Buys A fantastic spätlese. Rich, succulent and harmonious, boasting peach, citrus and mineral aromas and flavors, all pure and displayed with finesse on a well-integrated structure. It picks up a creaminess and vanilla note on the endless finish. Drink now through 2020. 1,100 cases made. (BS), Price: $27, Score: 95 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Auslese Wehlener Sonnenuhr 2001
Piercing scent of slate, then the palate is awash in peach, pear and lime notes, intricately layered in the dense, yet clear texture. Beautifully defined by a firm, well-integrated structure, with an endless finish. Drink now through 2020. 1,500 cases made. (BS), Price: $36, Score: 96 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Spätlese Wehlener Sonnenuhr 2001
A completely seductive and appealing '01 spätlese. Seamless and airy in texture, yet layered with peach, citrus and mineral aromas and flavors enmeshed in the delicate frame. Lovely finish. Drink now through 2015. 1,500 cases made. (BS), Price: $30, Score: Highly Recommended: 96 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Auslese Graacher Himmelreich 2001
Stunning and exotic, combining passion fruit, lemon custard and apricot flavors and a featherweight, vibrant structure. Very dense and mouthcoating, it picks up citrus and mineral accents on the finish. Drink now through 2020. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 300 cases made. (BS), Price: $31, Score: 99 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Bert Simon (Saar valley)
not rated

J. Wegeler (Mosel region)

Mosel Riesling Spätlese 2001
Pure and succulent, sporting apple, peach and mineral accents in a rich, vibrant structure. Really dense and long on the finish. Best from 2004 through 2012. 400 cases made. (BS), Price: $24, Score: 89 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Kabinett Wehlener Sonnenuhr 2001
This is compact, with more of a tactile impression than flavor, though the apple, herb and mineral notes are there. A little awkward today, but it has intensity and a vivid structure. Best from 2004 through 2010. 300 cases made. (BS), Price: $20, Score: 89 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Kabinett Bernkasteler Doctor 2001
Very distinctive. A slate monster, punctuated by vivid acidity and a creamy texture. Light in weight, but there's depth and complexity to the apple, herb and mineral notes, and the finish goes on and on. Drink now through 2010. 100 cases imported. (BS), Price: $39, Score: 90 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Spätlese Wehlener Sonnenuhr 2001
Auction wine. Lush, ripe and delicious. The apricot, lime and mineral notes show a hint of botrytis, too, yet it's all kept in check by a bracing structure. Fine, lingering finish, but this needs time. Best from 2004 through 2012. 100 cases made. (BS), Price: $NA, Score: 91 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Spätlese Bernkasteler Doctor 2001
Racy and expressive, evoking lime, grapefruit and herbal aromas and flavors on a delicate, vivid structure. Dense and creamy, with a tangy, citrus aftertaste. Drink now through 2012. 400 cases made. (BS), Price: $48, Score: 91 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Auslese Wehlener Sonnenuhr 2001
Rich and ample, yet a bit hard and unyielding in flavor. Apple and peach are the main themes, with some citrus underneath. Purity on the finish bodes well for the future. Best from 2004 through 2010. 200 cases made. (BS), Price: $34, Score: 92 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Auslese Bernkasteler Doctor 2001
Brilliant and snappy, delivering pure flavors of peach, orange and mineral flavors on a dense, focused frame. Though lightweight, it leaves a mouthcoating impression. Drink now through 2012. 200 cases made. (BS), Price: $70, Score: 92 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Beerenauslese Bernkasteler Doctor 2001
Pungent and loaded with botrytis and also a hint of acetone lifting the apricot, candied citrus and honey flavors. Intense, with a bracing structure and dense, smooth texture. It needs time to come together. (Auction wine). Best from 2004 through 2020. 30 cases made. (BS), Price: $NA, Score: 94 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese Bernkasteler Doctor 2001
Thick, dripping with botrytis flavors and packed with caramel, honey, guava and smoky mineral notes, all backed by a vibrant structure, but it's dominated by sweetness now. Long, smoke and caramel finish, so be patient. (Auction wine). Best from 2005 through 2025. (BS), Price: $NA, Score: 96 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

J. Wegeler (Rheingau region)

Rheingau Riesling Halbtrocken 2001
Lean and on the dry side, with focused pear, lime and mineral notes, all supported by tangy acidity. Ripe pear aftertaste. Drink now through 2005. 1,200 cases made. (BS), Price: $17, Score: 88 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Rheingau Riesling Kabinett 2001
A rich, muscular kabinett, yet in tune with its apricot and nectarine flavors and bright structure. Good lingering finish. This needs some time to come together. Best from 2004 through 2010. 1,200 cases made. (BS), Price: $20, Score: 89 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Spätlese Rüdesheimer Berg Rottland (AP 23) 2001
(Auction wine). Light as a feather and deftly balanced, this 2001 Riesling offers juicy peach and orange-tinged notes on a round, accessible structure. Drink now through 2008. (BS), Price: $NA, Score: 90 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Spätlese Rüdesheimer Berg Rottland (AP 11) 2001
(Auction wine). Not that expressive today, but I like the density and creamy texture, a perfect foil for the lime, apple and mineral flavors and sleek profile. Drink now through 2010. 100 cases made. (BS), Price: $NA, Score: 91 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Auslese Geisenheimer Rothenberg (AP 12) 2001
A beauty, graceful and catlike, evoking sweet herbs, honey and apple notes on a lightweight structure. Very pure and deftly balanced. Drink now through 2015. 200 cases made. (BS), Price: $34, Score: 92 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Auslese Geisenheimer Rothenberg (AP 13) 2001
A textbook auslese, offering pure, well-defined apricot, honey and citrus aromas and flavors, with just a hint of botrytis on a rich texture. The vibrant acidity keeps it balanced and persistent through the long finish. (Auction wine). Drink now through 2015. (BS), Price: $NA, Score: 94 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Beerenauslese Oestricher Doosberg 2001
Extremely pure, featuring pear, spice and honey aromas and flavors enmeshed in a thick texture and lightweight, vibrant structure. It offers plenty of excitement, ending with a refreshing, clean finish. (Auction wine). Drink now through 2020. 30 cases made. (BS), Price: $NA, Score: 96 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Eiswein Geisenheimer Rothenberg 2001
Harmonious, creamy and elegant, offering peach, apple and pear notes backed by tangy acidity and dense texture. It stays persistent through the long, smoky finish. Drink now through 2017. 25 cases imported. (BS), Price: $69, Score: 96 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Eiswein Winkeler Hasensprung 2001
Spice and beeswax aromas are accented by peach and apple flavors in this creamy, vibrant eiswein. The finish is a little tart, but very long, with a citrus and apple aftertaste. Well done. Drink now through 2015. 25 cases imported. (BS), Price: $69, Score: 94 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese Rüdesheimer Berg Rottland 2001
Elegant and rich, with vanilla-tinged honey and peach flavors and lively acidity. It's compact at this stage, showing a narrower range of flavors than the best in the category. (Auction wine). Drink now through 2018. (BS), Price: $NA, Score: 96 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Robert Weil (Rheingau region)

Riesling QbA 2001
This has density, with peach, apple and lemon flavors and a firm, clear profile. A good match for light foods. Drink now through 2006. 5,000 cases made. (BS), Price: $19, Score: 88 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Auslese Kiedrich Gräfenberg 2001
There's a hint of thyme or sage here, along with honey and candied citrus peel flavors. Moderately structured, with good concentration and a lingering finish. Drink now through 2008. 500 cases made. (BS), Price: $52, Score: 90 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Kabinett 2001
Bursting with a peach note, but also firm and unyielding in its texture. There's density here, along with a richness, so be patient. Best from 2004 through 2008. 3,000 cases made. (BS), Price: $25, Score: 90 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Auslese Gold Cap Kiedrich Gräfenberg 2001
Thick and rich, exhibiting herbal, caramel and pastry aromas and flavors on a lithe, racy structure. Impressive for its concentration and finesse, with a lingering aftertaste of apricot preserves. Very clean and pure and deceptive in its subtlety.(Auction wine). Drink now through 2012. 90 cases made. (BS), Price: $NA, Score: 95 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Eiswein Kiedrich Gräfenberg 2001
A touch sweaty in aroma, settling down on the palate to reveal concentrated peach, citrus and honey flavors matched to a dense texture and vibrant structure. Drink now through 2015. 130 cases made. (BS), Price: $138, Score: 95 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Spätlese Kiedrich Gräfenberg 2001
More like auslese-level ripeness here, but what a beauty. Silky, seamless and superbly balanced, with its richness offset by mouthwatering acidity. So pure and graceful, the apricot, citrus and pineapple flavors melt in the mouth. It ends with a tangy, mineral note. Drink now through 2015. 1,200 cases made. (BS), Price: $50, Score: Highly Recommended: 96 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese Kiedrich Gräfenberg 2001
Gorgeous. Almost singed around the edges, like cooked fruit, along with spice, caramel and stony, earthy components in a dynamic, balanced presentation. Thick, but avoids being cloying, with a long, long finish. Drink now through 2025. 50 cases made. (BS), Price: $209, Score: 97 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Dr. F. Weins-Prüm (Mosel valley)
Riesling QbA Halbtrocken 2001
The apple and mineral flavors are pleasant, though muted, and it has a bright structure. This has weight for a Mosel Riesling, along with a rich texture. Drink now through 2004. 500 cases made. (BS), Price: $15, Score: 85 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Kabinett Graacher Domprobst 2001
Dense and creamy, though not all that expressive today, with apple and mineral flavors supported by a lively structure. It finishes with an apple skin astringency. Best from 2004 through 2010. 200 cases made. (BS), Price: $18, Score: 89 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Spätlese Graacher Domprobst 2001
Creamy and herbal, with green tea, spice and mineral in a dense, compact style. It's balanced and vibrant, just lacking the harmony of the best on the finish. Give it some time to meld. Best from 2004 through 2012. 200 cases made. (BS), Price: $25, Score: 89 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Auslese Graacher Domprobst 2001
This is sleek and racy, with an airy texture and loads of pastry and mineral flavors. Light for this group, but well-balanced and long. Drink now through 2010. 200 cases made. (BS), Price: $35, Score: 90 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Kabinett Wehlener Sonnenuhr 2001
Intense and vivid, with apple and lemon verbena notes and a coarseness to the texture. Give it some time to settle down. Best from 2004 through 2008. 400 cases made. (BS), Price: $19, Score: 91 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Spätlese Wehlener Sonnenuhr 2001
Pure, focused and racy, with apple, lemon candy and mineral aromas and flavors on an elegant, lightweight frame and creamy texture. Tightly wound today, but this has the goods. Best from 2004 through 2012. 300 cases made. (BS), Price: $26, Score: 92 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Spätlese Erdener Prälat 2001
Racy and dense, this flyweight white offers floral, apple, brown spice and mineral aromas and flavors on a bracing structure. It's compact and firm on the finish, with a lingering aftertaste. Very focused, this is for the long term. Best from 2004 through 2015. 40 cases made. (BS), Price: $29, Score: 94 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Auslese Wehlener Sonnenuhr 2001
Very creamy, with vanilla pastry and almond notes playing off the pure peach and citrus in this juicy auslese. Bracing acidity keeps it all sharply defined, yet balanced, and the aftertaste is long. Drink now through 2015. 300 cases made. (BS), Price: $36, Score: 94 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Auslese Erdener Prälat 2001
Apple, pear and apricot aromas and flavors permeate the juicy texture and vibrant structure. Rich and palate-coating, with a long finish. About as succulent as Mosel auslese gets. Drink now through 2020. 40 cases made. (BS), Price: $48, Score: 95 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Auslese Gold Cap Wehlener Sonnenuhr 2001
A super '01 auslese. Dense and mouthcoating, exuding spice, baked apple and mineral aromas and flavors woven into a succulent texture and fine structure. Very well-balanced and graceful, with just a hint of residual sweetness showing on the finish. Time will take care of that. Best from 2006 through 2020. 50 cases made. (BS), Price: $93, Score: 97 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Hans Wirsching (Franken region)

Riesling Spätlese Trocken Iphöfer Julius-Echter-Berg 2001
A rich, full-bodied, dry Riesling, with walnut oil, white peach and white pepper notes on a firm structure. A bit raw and unevolved now, so give it some time to integrate. Best from 2004 through 2008. 600 cases made. (BS), Price: $39, Score: 89 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Spätlese Iphöfer Kronsberg 2001
Round, medium-bodied and nutty, here's a rich, concentrated Riesling, with a bracing stucture, showing spice and baked apple flavors. Not a showy wine, but very well made. Try with roast pork. Drink now through 2010. 600 cases made. (BS), Price: $33, Score: 90 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Eiswein Iphöfer Julius-Echter-Berg 2001
Apricot nectar. Brilliant in its intensity and focus, this offers pure apricot and green tea notes, accented by lemon candy. Very sweet, dense and balanced, it ends with a lingering aftertase of peach and lemon. Drink now through 2020. 20 cases made. (BS), Price: $150, Score: 98 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Zilliken - Forstmeister Geltz (Saar valley)
Riesling QbA Halbtrocken 2001
Round and creamy, with peach, mineral and vanilla custard flavors on a rich, broad texture. Good, mouthwatering finish. Drink now through 2005. 400 cases made. (BS), Price: $15, Score: 87 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling Spätlese Saarburger Rausch 2001
Very ripe, with mint and pine aromas and a peach flavor matched to an open texture. There's good acidity underneath for support; this needs time to integrate. Drink now through 2008. 300 cases made. (BS), Price: $27, Score: 88 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Riesling QbA 2001
Interesting flavors of tropical fruit, lime and slate, matched by a pure, focused structure. Not showy, but intense. Best from 2004 through 2008. 300 cases made. (BS), Price: $15, Score: 89 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Kabinett Saarburger Rausch 2001
Creamy and succulent in texture, exhibiting peach, talcum powder and mineral aromas and flavors in an elegant, lightweight package. Drink now through 2008. 1,200 cases made. (BS), Price: $20, Score: 90 pts, Winespectator Issue: Mar 31, 2003

Riesling Auslese Gold Cap Saarburger Rausch 2001
Pear, honeysuckle, apricot and chamomile notes with a hint of botrytis reveal themselves on a gossamer framework, pulsing through the finish, thanks to the vibrant structure. Fine length. (Auction wine). Best from 2004 through 2015. 25 cases made. (BS), Price: $NA, Score: 94 pts, Winespectator Issue: Web Only (2003)

Rudi Wiest Selections
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