Groebe Westhofener Kirchspiel Riesling Erstes Gewächs 2005 Label
Rheinhessen; 13% abv; 8 g/l RS; 6,6 g/l acidity; 31€
Light gold. A very intriguing style: the nose has an almost oaky hint to it (but I must be imagining!) but with a strong Granny Smith, citrus and mineral component also - very Riesling-like despite the odd wood-like twist. The palate is full-bodied and strong, but paradoxically light on its feet thanks to good acidity and a strong mineral precense. It has enough fruit to be in good balance despite having very little RS. Very long and a touch forceful aftertaste. I rather like it.
Can someone explain to me in layman's terms where that tiny vanillary hint can come from as I seriously don't think this sees new oak?
Isn't the Erstes Gewächs supposed to be called Erste Lage in Rheinhessen or do I misremember? Should I ask the Cellar Tracker name for this to be changed?
This is a totally new producer for me, but it seems to be really interesting stuff. How do the Riesling aficionados like the producer?
Would you prefer me to link to the label or post it straight on the site? I now have a second-hand, occasionally co-operative camera (I can stand the only occasional co-operativeness since I got if free), so I've been putting up lots of pics as you might have noticed. Any preference from now on?
-O-
I don't drink wine because of religious reasons ... only for other reasons.