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Wine Spectator - 2004 vintage

Mönchhof / Robert Eymael (Mosel valley)

Mönchhof 2004 Riesling Auslese Ürziger Würzgarten
Opulent and exotic, this white delivers mango, apricot, passion fruit and orange flavors, all focused by its vibrant structure. Fine balance, a juicy texture and a lingering aftertaste of citrus completes the impression. Drink now through 2025. (BS)
Score: 93 points | $45 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Mönchhof 2004 Riesling Auslese Erdener Treppchen
A zinger. Bracing acidity keeps this white lively and mouthwatering. It's delicate, showing apple and white peach flavors accented by mineral. Fine intensity gives it presence on the palate. Best from 2008 through 2022. (BS)
Score: 91 points | $45 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Mönchhof 2004 Riesling Auslese Erdener Prälat
Aromas of peach and orange signal this rich Riesling, whose peach and apricot flavors get lift and persistence courtesy of its vibrant acidity. There's an elegance and also a density to the flavors that last on the finish. Drink now through 2025. (BS)
Score: 91 points | $55 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Mönchhof 2004 Riesling Spätlese Ürziger Würzgarten
Rich in texture, then the tangy acidity sweeps in, refreshing the palate and marshaling the lime, green apple and mineral flavors to a long conclusion. Very mouthwatering. Drink now through 2020. (BS)
Score: 90 points | $28 | Issue: Mar 31, 2006

Mönchhof 2004 "Mosel Slate" Riesling Spätlese
A style, with a gossamer frame and juicy texture supporting its peach, citrus and spice notes. It's all focused by the vibrant structure, which glides to a long conclusion. Drink now through 2018. (BS)
Score: 90 points | Price: $20 | Issue: Mar 31, 2006

Mönchhof 2004 Riesling Kabinett Ürziger Würzgarten
Ripe and fleshy, with peach and apple notes, supported by a lovely structure and mineral element. It's a kabinett with volume and fine length. Drink now through 2018. (BS)
Score: 88 points | $20 | Issue: Dec 31, 2005

Mönchhof 2004 Estate Riesling
Plump and juicy, with apricot, nectarine and mineral notes married to a bright structure. It's balanced and lingers on the finish. Drink now through 2010. (BS)
Score: 89 points | $15 | Issue: Dec 31, 2005

Wegeler (Mosel valley)

Wegeler (Mosel) 2004 Riesling Eiswein Bernkasteler Doctor
Rich and mouthcoating in intensity, offering pear, apricot and lime flavors, yet with keen acidity for balance. It's graceful and lightweight, lingering gently on the finish. Drink now through 2030. (BS) Score: 95 points | $156 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Wegeler (Mosel) 2004 Riesling Riesling Spätlese Wehlener Sonnenuhr
Fresh and lively, with pure peach, lime and slate notes expressing its origin. It's balanced and long, with a lingering aftertaste of lime and mineral. Drink now through 2020. (BS)
Score: 90 points | $33 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Wegeler (Mosel) 2004 Riesling Spätlese Bernkasteler Doctor
A touch of carbonic gas emphasizes the lime and mineral notes in this pure Riesling, but also gives it a hard edge. That will soften with time or air. This is balanced and tangy, with fine length. Best from 2007 through 2020. (BS)
Score: 90 points | $57 | Issue: Mar 31, 2006

Wegeler (Mosel) 2004 Riesling
Racy, on a gossamer structure, this has intensity and saturation to its peach, spice and mineral flavors. Fine crackle and resonance on the finish. Drink now through 2010. (BS)
Score: 90 points | $20 | Issue: Dec 31, 2005

Wegeler (Mosel) 2004 Riesling Auslese Mosel-Saar-Ruwer Bernkasteler Doctor
Rich and juicy, offering peach, apricot and nectarine flavors. It's harmonious and round, with enough acidity to keep it focused and capable of developing well. Drink now through 2020. (BS)
Score: 9 points | $92 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Wegeler (Mosel) 2004 Riesling Kabinett Mosel-Saar-Ruwer Wehlener Sonnenuhr
Sleek and juicy, yet a little on the tart side. Apple and citrus notes ply the mineral edge in this light-bodied Riesling, and it finishes with a tanginess. Best from 2008 through 2018. (BS)
Score: 89 points | $25 | Issue: Dec 31, 2005

Joh. Jos. Prüm (Mosel valley)

Joh. Jos. Prüm 2004 Riesling Auslese Graacher Himmelreich PDF
The nose is marked by SO2 now, but this is positively crunchy on the palate. The vibrant structure and clarity set the tone for its peach, citrus and mineral notes. It’s refreshing and alive, with a mouthwatering finish. This needs time. Best from 2009 through 2030.—B.S.
94 points - Highly Recommended | $38 | 1,200 cases made | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Joh. Jos. Prüm 2004 Riesling Auslese Wehlener Sonnenuhr
This has a matchstick aroma from reduction, while the palate expresses peach, lime and mineral flavors. It has fine density and a keen-edged structure that keeps it detailed and crunchy. Long, mouthwatering finish. Best from 2009 through 2030. 1,200 cases made. (BS)
92 points | $43 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Joh. Jos. Prüm 2004 Riesling Spätlese Wehlener Sonnenuhr
Overall, this is unevolved and angular now. It’s rich and intense, with bracing acidity that leaves a tart impression. Be patient, this is a baby that needs plenty of time. Best from 2008 through 2025.—B.S.
92 points | $37 | 2,000 cases made | Issue: Mar 31, 2006

Joh. Jos. Prüm 2004 Riesling Spätlese Graacher Himmelreich
A tad reduced in aroma, this young white has plenty of intensity, offering lime, peach and slate flavors matched to a silky texture. It's awkward today, needing time to integrate. Best from 2008 through 2020. (BS)
90 points | $33 | 1,500 cases made | Issue: Mar 31, 2006

Joh. Jos. Prüm 2004 Riesling Kabinett Wehlener Sonnenuhr
A textbook kabinett--light, crisp and bursting with floral, peach and citrus flavors. It's balanced, with a tangy finish that picks up a mineral note. Drink now through 2015. 2,000 cases made. (BS)
Score: 89 points | $29 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Joh. Jos. Prüm 2004 Riesling Kabinett Graacher Himmelreich
A little reduction in aroma will dissipate with time or air, revealing peach, lime and mineral notes. This is silky and delicate, with a long finish. Fine harmony and expression overall. Drink now through 2012. 1,500 cases made. (BS)
Score: 89 points | $25 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Joh. Jos. Prüm 2004 Riesling Kabinett
Apricot and peach flavors, with a hint of lime mark this crisp, tangy Riesling. It's light-weight and lingers nicely on the finish. Drink now through 2012. 600 cases made. (BS)
Score: 87 points | $21 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Dr. F. Weins-Prüm (Mosel valley)

Dr. F. Weins-Prüm 2004 Riesling Auslese Gold Cap Graacher Domprobst
This has some preserved fruit notes, a beeswax aroma and a honeyed component highlighting its lime, grapefruit and apricot flavors. It may just be the botrytis, which intensifies everything. It's angular now, but has the elements for a long life ahead. Best from 2008 through 2025. (BS)
Score: 93 points | $96 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Dr. F. Weins-Prüm 2004 Riesling Kabinett Ürziger Würzgarten
Peach, apple and mineral notes are finely etched by the racy structure in this pure, detailed Riesling. It's slightly drier and really picks up the mineral character of the site on the finish. Almost peppery in the aftertaste. Drink now through 2025. (BS)
Score: 92 points | $20 | Issue: Dec 31, 2005

Dr. F. Weins-Prüm 2004 Riesling Kabinett Wehlener Sonnenuhr
A mix of peach, apple, mineral and spice aromas and flavors saturates the vibrant structure in this lightning bolt of a Riesling. Plenty of crackle ends with a mouthwatering, lime-tinged aftertaste. Best from 2008 through 2025. (BS)
Score: 91 points | $23 | Issue: Dec 31, 2005

Dr. F. Weins-Prüm 2004 Riesling Spätlese Erdener Prälat
A spicy Riesling, marked by nectarine, cinnamon and white pepper aromas and flavors. It's round and succulent, with a slate-tinged aftertaste. Drink now through 2015. (BS)
Score: 89 points | $34 | Issue: Mar 31, 2006

Dr. F. Weins-Prüm 2004 Riesling Spätlese Graacher Domprobst
This resonates with green apple, white peach and mineral flavors supported by a vibrant structure. It's assertive, but without the intensity of the best in the group. Best from 2007 through 2015. (BS) Score: 89 points | $28 | Issue: Mar 31, 2006

Dr. F. Weins-Prüm 2004 Riesling Kabinett Graacher Himmelreich
Crisp and laced with apple flavor, this '04 Riesling is lithe and appealing. It's dense yet short on the finish. It may open up with time, but this site is usually very expressive. Best from 2007 through 2015. (BS)
Score: 87 points | $20 | Issue: Dec 31, 2005

Dr. F. Weins-Prüm 2004 Riesling Kabinett Graacher Domprobst
Moderate concentration to the apple and slate flavors and a juicy texture cover the skeletal frame in this vivid Riesling. It gets a little pinched on the finish. Best from 2008 through 2020. (BS)
Score: 86 points | $20 | Issue: Dec 31, 2005

Dr. F. Weins-Prüm 2004 Riesling Spätlese Wehlener Sonnenuhr
A racy, delicate style, with moderate intensity to its peach, lime and vanilla custard notes. It's well-balanced and needs some time to integrate the acidity. Good length. Best from 2008 through 2018. (BS)
Score: 88 points | $31 | Issue: Mar 31, 2006

Dr. F. Weins-Prüm 2004 Riesling medium-dry (Halbtrocken)
Off-dry, with tart acidity. Starts with a fleshy peach note in a light-weight frame, picking up some mineral. Moderate length. Drink now through 2008. (BS)
Score: 87 points | $15 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Dr. F. Weins-Prüm 2004 Riesling Spätlese Graacher Himmelreich
Floral, lime and apple flavors here, buoyed by a lively structure. It turns compact on the finish, with a green apple astringency. Drink now through 2015. (BS)
Score: 85 points | $28 | Issue: Web Only (2006)

Fritz Haag (Mosel valley)

Fritz Haag 2004 Riesling Auslese Gold Cap Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr # 09
A terrific gold cap auslese. Rich and concentrated, yet it seems lighter than air, an ideal backdrop for its dried apricot, roasted almond, candied citrus and mineral flavors. Though sweet and intense, it finishes cleanly, with a mouthwatering acidity. Best from 2008 through 2030. —B.S.
96 points | $91/375ml | NA cases made

Fritz Haag 2004 Riesling Auslese Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr # 06
A young, scintillating auslese, displaying great clarity and detail. Apple, peach, spice and mineral aromas and flavors are the highlights, brought into relief by the well-integrated acidity. Fine harmony and length. This will age well. Best from 2008 through 2030.—B.S.
94 points | $55 | NA cases made

Fritz Haag 2004 Riesling Spätlese Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr
Racy, with great clarity and focus, this winds its peach, citrus and mineral flavors around a core of acidity. Fine intensity and harmony on a light-weight frame. The finish goes on and on. This is for the long haul. Drink now through 2025. (BS)
93 points | $40 | NA cases made | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Fritz Haag 2004 Riesling Spätlese Brauneberger Juffer
A zinger. The racy structure sets the stage for lime, apple, coriander, cardamom and mineral aromas and flavors in this sleek Riesling. It’s very pure, filigreed and mouthwatering, building in intensity to the lingering finish. Best from 2008 through 2025.—B.S.
93 points | $33 | NA cases made

Fritz Haag 2004 Riesling Kabinett Brauneberger Juffer PDF
Crunchy, like biting into a crisp apple, with white pepper and citrus accents. Balanced and mouthwatering. Drink now through 2010. - Bruce Sanderson
87 points - pick of the day Feb. 27, 2006 | $25 | NA cases made

Fritz Haag 2004 Riesling
There is more spice and mineral here than grapefruit flavors, but it's also drier, with a white pepper note showing up in the finish. Good intensity and length. Drink now through 2010. (BS)
88 points | $20 | NA cases made

Reinhold Haart (Mosel valley)

Reinhold Haart 2004 Riesling Auslese Piesporter Goldtröpfchen
Stunning nose of flowers, dried citrus, herbs and minerals introduce this intense yet elegant auslese. It’s pure and expressive, with pinpoint balance and a salty, minerally finish. It doesn’t taste sweeter than the spätlese, but it’s more intense. Drink now through 2030.—B.S.
94 points | $44 | NA cases made | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Reinhold Haart 2004 Riesling Spätlese Piesporter Goldtröpfchen
Delicious ripe fruit flavors span the spectrum, from exotic tropical fruit to black currant to mineral. Very expressive, with a good sense of place. It shows harmony and fine length. Drink now through 2020.—B.S.
93 points | $39 | NA cases made | Issue: Mar 31, 2006

Reinhold Haart 2004 Riesling Spätlese Wintricher Ohligsberg
A robust style, with a rich frame of peach and nectarine flavors backed by vibrant structure. It's closed at the moment, but hints of sweet spices and mineral emerge on the finish. Be patient. Best from 2008 through 2020. (BS)
Score: 91 points | Price: $39 | Issue: Mar 31, 2006

Reinhold Haart 2004 Riesling Kabinett Piesporter
A drier style, sporting lime, slate and spice aromas and flavors. It picks up more citrus on the bracing, long finish. Drink now through 2012. (BS)
Score: 89 points | Price: $23 |Issue: Feb 28, 2006

Reinhold Haart 2004 Riesling Spätlese Piesporter
Ripe and lively, with floral, peach, pear and citrus notes. It's creamy in texture and a bit reserved, but shows balance and length. Drink now through 2012. (BS)
Score: 88 points | Price: $29 |Issue: Mar 31, 2006

Reinhold Haart 2004 Riesling Kabinett Piesporter Goldtröpfchen
Plenty of mineral and beeswax notes augment the peach and apple flavors in this well-defined Riesling. It's lively and light-weight, with a salty, mineral echo on the finish. Drink now through 2015. (BS)
Score: 88 points | Price: $32 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Reinhold Haart 2004 Riesling "Haart to Heart"
Full of spice and cream, with an underlying citrusy acidity, this is intense and balanced. It lingers nicely on the finish. Drink now through 2010. (BS)
Score: 88 points | Price: $17 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Schloss Lieser (Mosel valley)

Schloss Lieser 2004 Riesling Auslese Gold Cap Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr Fuder 14
Detailed aromas and flavors of peach, lime and slate overlay a crackling structure in this transparent white. The finish lingers, echoing the fruit and mineral themes. Drink now through 2025.—B.S.
94 points | $59 | NA cases made

Schloss Lieser 2004 Riesling Auslese Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr
Plenty of snap, crackle and pop to this brilliant Riesling. Apple, peach and mineral are the main flavors, with accents of vanilla pastry and lime. It’s focused and persistent, with balance and a long finish. Drink now through 2025.—B.S.
94 points | $38 | NA cases made

Schloss Lieser 2004 Riesling Auslese Lieser Niederberg Helden
A beautiful auslese, very pure and focused, with detailed apple, peach and mineral flavors on an ethereal frame. It's already well-integrated, though there's still some matchstick evident in the aroma, so give it time. Best from 2007 through 2025. (BS)
93 points | $36 | NA cases made | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Schloss Lieser 2004 Riesling Auslese Gold Cap** Lieser Niederberg Helden
Fine depth here and concentration to the apple, peach, beeswax and spice flavors. It's still closed, with a vibrant structure offsetting the lush texture. Deftly balanced, it needs time for the flavors to express themselves. Good sense of place too. Best from 2008 through 2030. (BS)
93 points | $51 | NA cases made | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Schloss Lieser 2004 Riesling Spätlese Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr Fuder 14
Loads of slate, apple, peach and citrus aromas and flavors permeate this elegant white. It’s balanced and silky, with a long aftertaste of peach and mineral. It needs to resolve a little SO2, but this will age beautifully. Drink now through 2022.—B.S.
92 points | $31 | NA cases made

Schloss Lieser 2004 Riesling Spätlese Lieser Niederberg Helden
Textbook Mosel spätlese. Peach, lime and mineral notes with a hint of vanilla allied to a supple texture. Very pure, focused and harmonious, with a long finish. Drink now through 2020.—B.S.
92 points | $29 | NA cases made

Schloss Lieser 2004 Riesling Kabinett Brauneberger Juffer
Very creamy, with lime and orange flavors, tangy acidity and a brisk profile. There's plenty of intensity and all the elements are balanced. It just needs a few months to come together.
Drink now through 2015. (BS)
90 points | $23 | NA cases made - Online Daily Pick Jan 13, 2006

Schloss Lieser 2004 Riesling Kabinett
A tangy '04 kabinett, showing both spice and mineral accents shading the apple and citrus flavors. Moderately intense, with an elegant profile. Drink now through 2012. (BS)
87 points | $20 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Schloss Lieser 2004 Riesling
This is lean, racy and on the dry side. Peach, apple and mineral aromas and flavors are etched onto the firm structure. Not an easy QbA, but ideal for fans of a drier style. Drink now through 2009. (BS) 87 points | $15 | Issue: Dec 31, 2005

Milz / Laurentiushof (Mosel valley)

Milz-Laurentiushof 2004 Riesling Auslese Trittenheimer Felsenkopf
Fine clarity marks this elegant auslese, whose lime, orange and grapefruit flavors gain added depth from the stony accent. This remains vivid and crisp, with a little less harmony than the best examples from this site. Best from 2008 through 2025. (BS)
92 points | $39 | NA cases made | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Milz-Laurentiushof 2004 Riesling Spätlese Trittenheimer Apotheke
A complex mélange of herbs, spices, citrus and peach aromas and flavors meld deftly into the creamy texture. It’s supported by a vibrant structure and leaves a mouthwatering impression. Fine stony aftertaste. Drink now through 2020.—B.S.
92 points | $31 | NA cases made

Milz-Laurentiushof 2004 Riesling Spätlese Trittenheimer Felsenkopf
A tension between richness and the rapierlike structure sets the stage for vivid lime, peach, apple and mineral flavors. It's tightly wound now, showing a youthful raw edge, with a lot of promise for the future. Fine intensity and length. Best from 2008 through 2022. (BS)
91 points | $31 | NA cases made | Issue: Mar 31, 2006

Milz-Laurentiushof 2004 Riesling Kabinett Trittenheimer
Crisp and focused, this white delivers moderate lime and apple notes on a light-weight, racy frame. Fine, tangy length. Drink now through 2015. (BS)
88 points | Price: $23 | Issue: Feb 28, 2006

Milz-Laurentiushof 2004 Riesling Spätlese Trittenheimer Leiterchen
Shy in aroma, this white reveals apricot and grapefruit notes on a round profile. It has good acidity and a juicy, mouthwatering finish. Drink now through 2018. (BS)
88 points | $31 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

von Hövel (Saar valley)

von Hövel 2004 Riesling Auslese** Oberemmeler Hütte
A delicate auslese, with a racy structure, this Riesling displays exotic pear, honey and vanilla pastry flavors, a creamy texture and fine length. It's well-balanced yet needs a little time to harmonize. Best from 2008 through 2025. (BS)
Score: 92 points | Price: $96 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

von Hövel 2004 Riesling Spätlese Oberemmeler Hütte
Ripe and juicy, this white offers apricot, beeswax and orange notes, with a hint of cream on the finish. It's balanced and lively, with a citrus-tinged finish. Best from 2007 through 2018. (BS)
Score: 89 points | Price: $27 | Issue: Mar 31, 2006

von Hövel 2004 Riesling " Balduin"
Fresh and lip-smacking, this Riesling evokes lime, apple and spice flavors on a light-weight frame. Balanced, precise and expressive. Drink now through 2012. (BS)
Score: 89 points | Price: $15 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

von Hövel 2004 Riesling Kabinett Scharzhofberg
Fine delineation and focus here, but it needs a little time for the apple, lime and mineral flavors to knit together with the laserlike structure and off-dry profile. Best from 2007 through 2014. (BS)
Score: 88 points | Price: $22 | Issue: Feb 28, 2006

von Hövel 2004 Riesling Kabinett Oberemmeler Hütte
Lean and balanced on the tart side, with green apple, white peach and mineral notes. It lingers well, echoing apple on the finish. Drink now through 2012. (BS)
Score: 86 points | Price: $22 | Issue: Feb 28, 2006

Zilliken (Saar valley)

Zilliken 2004 Riesling Kabinett Saarburger Rausch
The flavors are locked tight, hinting at apple, lime and mineral on a light-weight frame. The racy structure is evident, along with a salty, mineral intensity on the finish. Best from 2007 through 2014. - Bruce Sanderson
88 points - daily pick on January 19th, 2006 | $23 | Issue: Feb 28, 2006

Zilliken 2004 Riesling Auslese Saarburger Rausch
Peach, pineapple and vanilla custard mingle in this light-weight, tightly wound white. It's balanced on the sharp side and doesn't appear to have the richness or concentration for balance. Best from 2008 through 2022. (BS)
Score: 88 points | Price: $51 | Issue: Web Only (2006)

Zilliken 2004 Riesling Kabinett Ockfener Bockstein
Ripe aromas of peach and nectarine signal this rich yet balanced Riesling. It picks up a mineral note on the palate, with refreshing length. Just lacks a little intensity. Drink now through 2012. (BS)
Score: 87 points | Price: $23 | Issue: Feb 28, 2006

Karthäuserhof (Ruwer valley)

Karthäuserhof 2004 Riesling Eiswein Eitelsbacher Karthäuserhofberg NR. 49 (AP 18)
A lighter style of eiswein, with a creamy texture offsetting a vivid acidity, setting the stage for peach, lime and mineral flavors. Juicy and clean, it's expressive of place. Drink now through 2030. (BS)
Score: 94 points | Price: $340 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Karthäuserhof 2004 Riesling Auslese Gold Cap Eitelsbacher Karthäuserhofberg NR. 52 (AP 15)
There's a vivid underlying acidity here and it's balanced by a richness and density that gives this white dimension and length. Honey is the main flavor theme, along with apricot and lime. Fine, lip-smacking finish. Best from 2008 through 2025. (BS)
Score: 93 points | Price: $58 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Karthäuserhof 2004 Riesling Auslese Long Gold Cap Eitelsbacher Karthäuserhofberg NR. 53 (AP 16)
This is forward initially, showing apricot, lime and dried apple notes before the bracing acidity sweeps in and leaves a citrus tanginess on the palate. Similar to an eiswein in character, with a sweet-tart profile. It needs time to integrate. Best from 2008 through 2030. (BS)
Score: 93 points | Price: $NA | Issue: Web Only (2006)

Karthäuserhof 2004 Riesling Spätlese Eitelsbacher Karthäuserhofberg
An energetic white that awakens the palate with its succulent lime, apple and peach notes that are well-defined by the sleek structure. Fine persistence through the lingering citrus finish. Best from 2007 through 2020. (BS)
Score: 90 points | Price: $33 |Issue: Mar 31, 2006

Karthäuserhof 2004 Riesling Auslese Eitelsbacher Karthäuserhofberg
Lean and tight, this is driven by its racy structure. Lime and grapefruit flavors pick up tangerine and apricot shadings. It ends with a slight tartness. Best from 2009 through 2022. (BS)
Score: 89 points | Price: $41 |Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Karthäuserhof 2004 Riesling Kabinett Eitelsbacher Karthäuserhofberg
Racy and crystalline, with persistent apple, spice and lime aromas and flavors. It has a subtle finish, yet I like the integration. Drink now through 2010. (BS)
Score: 88 points | Price: $25 | Issue: Feb 28, 2006

Karthäuserhof 2004 Riesling medium-dry (Feinherb) Eitelsbacher Karthäuserhofberg
A soft, gentle Riesling, showing peach and apple flavors, picking up a citrus acidity by the finish. Nicely balanced and fresh. Drink now through 2010. (BS)
Score: 87 points | Price: $20 | Issue: Web Only (2006)

Gunderloch (Rheinhessen region)

Gunderloch 2004 Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese Nackenheim Rothenberg
Incredible unctuousness, while the aroma signals wet earth and mineral notes. Silky-smooth, it remains light on the palate, leaving the essence of apricot, honey and spice flavors, which fade gracefully on the long finish. Drink now through 2050. (BS)
98 points | $361/375ml | 25 cases imported | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Gunderloch 2004 Riesling Beerenauslese Nackenheim Rothenberg
Thick, opulent and complex, this supple and distinctive BA offers honey, spice, dried pineapple, apricot, mineral and white chocolate notes. Concentrated and intense, it has a lively structure and finishes clean. Drink now through 2040. 40 cases imported. (BS)
97 points | $201/375ml | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Gunderloch 2004 Riesling Auslese Gold Cap Nackenheim Rothenberg
Botrytis adds a dimension of concentration and exotic spice and honey notes to this apricot- and pineapple infused Riesling. The vivid acidity crackles and pops. Best from 2009 through 2030.—B.S.
95 points | $91/375ml | 75 cases imported | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Gunderloch 2004 Riesling Spätlese Nackenheimer Rothenberg
Intense aromas and flavors of pineapple, apricot, wet earth and stone are exuberant and beautifully integrated with the silky texture and vibrant structure. There’s fine depth and a lingering intensity. You can almost smell a spring rain rising from the warm slate. Drink now through 2022.—B.S.
94 points - Highly Recommended | $38 | 400 cases imported | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Gunderloch 2004 Riesling Auslese Rheinhessen Nackenheim Rothenberg
A succulent, pure Riesling, elegant, light-weight and packed with passion fruit, apricot, pineapple and mineral aromas and flavors. Its vibrant acidity meshes with the flavors and texture creating a seamless impression. Lingering note of white pepper. Drink now through 2025. 250 cases imported. (BS)
93 points| $30 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Gunderloch 2004 Jean-Baptiste Riesling Kabinett
Peach, spice and mineral aromas and flavors mark this intense, elegant kabinett. Balanced and evocative of place, with a lingering finish. It's still showing some CO2, so decant or give it air if you drink it now. Drink now through 2018. 4,000 cases imported. (BS)
88 points | $20 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Gunderloch 2004 Riesling Nackenheim Rothenberg (Grosses Gewächs)
Lean and austere in flavor, despite the rich texture midpalate, with a trace of apricot and white pepper that clings to the juicy finish. Drink now through 2010. 50 cases imported. (BS)
88 points | $60 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Gunderloch 2004 Riesling Dry
Rich and dry, yet the flavors are muted. Modest peach and grapefruit peel flavors, with a hint of mineral on the finish. Drink now through 2010. 600 cases imported. (BS)
87 points | $19 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Robert Weil (Rheingau region)

Robert Weil 2004 Riesling Riesling Beerenauslese Rheingau Kiedrich Gräfenberg
A silky-smooth dessert white, evoking apricot, honey, lemon and spice aromas and flavors. It's concentrated and lively, with fine intensity on a light-bodied profile. It still needs time to reveal all its charms. Drink now through 2040. (BS)
95 points | Price: $281/375ml | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Robert Weil 2004 Riesling Riesling Eiswein Rheingau Kiedrich Gräfenberg
Sharp, and lacking the purity of the best in its class, this is nonetheless intense, with pineapple, apricot and candied lemon flavors. Just a little cloying on the finish. Best from 2008 through 2025. (BS)
90 points | Price: $393 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Robert Weil 2004 Riesling Auslese Kiedrich Gräfenberg
The apricot, honey and citrus notes are finely etched and concentrated in this lively auslese. It shows balance and potential for aging, with botrytis adding spice accents. Best from 2008 through 2025.—B.S.
94 points | $145/750ml or $75/375ml | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Robert Weil 2004 Riesling Spätlese Rheingau Kiedrich Gräfenberg
Ripe and expressive, delivering apricot, mango and mandarin orange aromas and flavors, a well-integrated structure and mineral notes on the finish. It's delicious now, but will age well. Drink now through 2020. (BS)
92 points| Price: $72 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Robert Weil 2004 Riesling Spätlese
Pure and well-defined flavors of violet, lemon candy and apple initially, married to a rich texture. This has density and still shows it's structure, leaning to the acidity today, but time will integrate the elements. Creamy, minerally finish. Best from 2007 through 2020. (BS)
90 points | Price: $46 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Robert Weil 2004 Riesling Kabinett Rheingau 2004
Well-ensconced in the citrus end of the flavor spectrum, This Riesling also shows flashes of apple and mineral. It's firmly structured and penetrating, with a long finish. This will develop well. Drink now through 2020. (BS)
90 points | Price: $32 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Robert Weil 2004 Riesling Riesling Kabinett Halbtrocken
A mix of peach, pear and citrus flavors with enough flesh to cover its vibrant structure. Balanced and long, this needs a few months to soften. Drink now through 2012. (BS)
87 points | Price: $32 | Issue: Feb 28, 2006

Robert Weil 2004 Riesling Dry Kiedrich Gräfenberg Erstes Gewächs
Lemony acidity carries the citrus, floral and peach flavors. Needless to say, it's bracing and lip-smacking on the finish. Drink now through 2010. (BS)
87 points | Price: $72 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Franz Künstler (Rheingau region)

Künstler 2004 Riesling Spätlese Hochheimer Kirchenstück
Very sweet, this is also packed with vanilla custard, lemon, peach and spice flavors. Though lush, it's grounded by a vibrant structure. The overall impression is one of purity and clarity. A mineral salt aftertaste lingers. Drink now through 2022. (BS)
92 points | Price: $40 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Künstler 2004 Riesling Kabinett Hochheimer Reichesthal
Noticeably sweet yet balanced by vibrant acidity, framing the peach and vanilla cream flavors nicely. Fine balance and integration; the elements will become even more seamless with time. Excellent length too. Drink now through 2015. (BS)
90 points | Price: $25 |Issue: Feb 28, 2006

Künstler 2004 Riesling dry/trocken Hochheimer Stielweg "Alte Reben"
This is dry, with white peach, mineral and pepper notes well-matched to the lively structure. It has intensity and harmony, with a lingering finish. Drink now through 2010. (BS)
89 points | Price: $40 |Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Künstler 2004 Riesling Spätlese dry/trocken Hochheimer Kirchenstück
Attractive peach, apple and citrus aromas and flavors introduce this rich, balanced white. It has good intensity and a silky texture, just tailing off a little on the finish. Some time in the bottle will fill that out. Drink now through 2015. (BS)
89 points | Price: $31 |Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Künstler 2004 Riesling dry/trocken Gold Cap Hochheimer Hölle
Slim, but nicely balanced and showing peach, nectarine and floral notes married to a vibrant structure. It's dry and persistent through the long finish. Drink now through 2012. (BS)
88 points | Price: $72 |Issue: Web Only (2006)

Künstler 2004 Riesling
Plump and off-dry, with peach, apple and white pepper aromas and flavors. It's fresh, juicy and well-balanced, with a lingering finish. Drink now through 2010. (BS)
87 points | Price: $20 | Issue: Feb 28, 2006

Künstler 2004 Riesling medium-dry/halbtrocken
Harmony and balance are the hallmarks of this dry white. It's aristocratic and reserved, perhaps a little too much on the finish now. Ideal for lighter fish dishes. Drink now. (BS)
86 points | Price: $25 | Issue: Web Only (2006)

Wegeler (Rheingau region)

Wegeler (Rheingau) 2004 Riesling Beerenauslese Geisemheimer Rothenberg
A beautifully delineated dessert Riesling, this glides across the palate with its supple texture and lively structure. It's so seamless and balanced it's hard not to drink now, but this will develop more caramel and smoke flavors with age. Drink now through 2035. (BS)
Score: 96 points | $105 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Wegeler (Rheingau) 2004 Riesling Eiswein Rheingau Rüdesheimer Berg Rottland
Spicy pear, apple and apricot aromas and flavors highlight this intense, elegant eiswein. It has a supple texture and persistence, with a pear note echoing on the finish. Drink now - 2030. (BS)
Score: 94 points | $118 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Wegeler (Rheingau) 2004 Riesling Auslese Rheingau Geisemheimer Rothenberg
This is a zinger, with vibrant acidity focusing its peach, apple and lemon flavors on a delicate, light-bodied frame. It's supple and juicy, with a long, peach-infused aftertaste. Drink now - 2020. (BS)
Score: 92 points | $56 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Wegeler (Rheingau) 2004 Riesling Kabinett Rüdesheimer Berg Schlossberg
White pepper, stone, apricot and spices mark this ripe yet sleek '04 Riesling. It's supple and pulpy, with a well-integrated structure and a long, juicy finish. Drink now through 2012. (BS)
Score: 90 points | $25 | Issue: Feb 28, 2006

Wegeler (Rheingau) 2004 Riesling Spätlese Rheingau Rüdesheimer Berg Rottland
Sweet spices and white peach complement the apple flavor in this succulent white. Its lively acidity leaves a mouthwatering impression as it glides to a long aftertaste. Fine balance and purity. Drink now through 2018. (BS)
Score: 90 points | $31 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Wegeler (Rheingau) 2004 Riesling Halbtrocken (medium-dry)
A dry style, this hints at peach and wax flavors, with an underlying pepperiness. It's balanced and vivid, with intensity in an understated way. Drink now through 2010. - Bruce Sanderson
87 points - pick of the day Jan. 18, 2006 | $20 | NA cases made

von Buhl (Pfalz region)

von Buhl 2004 Riesling dry (Trocken) Forst Kirchenstück
A mix of grapefruit, peach and mineral create a spark in this elegant, dry white. Firm and well-balanced, it glides to a long finish. A little more tightly wound than its peers. Drink now through 2012. (BS)
90 points | Price: $51 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

von Buhl 2004 Riesling Auslese Forster Ungeheuer
A white with candied notes of violet, black currant and hints of citrus peel, this is sweet and sour, with just the right touch of each. Moderately concentrated, it lingers nicely on the finish. Drink now through 2018. (BS)
90 points | Price: $48 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

von Buhl 2004 Riesling Spätlese Forster Jesuitengarten
Compact and bright, this displays apple, peach and citrus flavors on a moderately firm structure. It's rich and open, yet should age well over the medium term. Drink now through 2015. (BS)
89 points | Price: $33 | Issue: Mar 31, 2006

von Buhl 2004 Riesling "Armand" Kabinett
Plenty of citrus notes here--lime, grapefruit--and snappy acidity to support them, and a second wave of intensity that persists through the finish. Drink now through 2009. (BS)
88 points | Price: $20 | Issue: Feb 28, 2006

von Buhl 2004 Riesling Spätlese Dry / Trocken Forster Ungeheuer
Austere in aroma and flavor, this shows modest grapefruit and white pepper notes and a bracing structure. Not bad balance, but it could use more vivid flavor. Drink now through 2012. (BS)
88 points | Price: $33 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

von Buhl 2004 Riesling Riesling Spätlese dry
Plenty of fruit and spice here, beginning with grapefruit, clove and cardamom notes that form a nice core. The texture is juicy and an apple note emerges on the finish. A little tight, but shows promise. Drink now through 2012. (BS)
88 points | Price: $25 | Issue: Mar 31, 2006

von Buhl 2004 "JAZZ label" Riesling medium-dry
Round and spicy, with modest peach, grapefruit and white pepper notes. The acidity peeks through on the finish. Drink now through 2009. (BS)
86 points | Price: $15 | Issue: Web Only (2006)

Rebholz (Pfalz region)

Rebholz 2004 Riesling (dry) Kastanienbusch
Floral and talcum powder aromas and mineral flavors highlight this dry Riesling. It's creamy in texture, with a lively spine that accentuates a lingering grapefruit and mineral note on the finish. Drink now through 2015. (BS)
92 points | Price: $80 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Rebholz 2004 Riesling (dry) Im Sonnenschein
Bracing, with a lemon acidity, this dry Riesling begins with richness and weight, then turns leaner, with citrus, apple and peach notes. For fans of laserlike acidity. Be patient. Best from 2007 through 2015. (BS)
90 points | Price: $80 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Rebholz 2004 Riesling Spätlese dry / Trocken Vom Buntsandstein (colored sandstone)
Powerful and rich, this offsets its apricot and peach notes with mineral and white pepper accents. It's a little austere on the finish, but should even out in a few months. Drink now through 2010. (BS)
88 points | Price: $40 | Issue: Apr 30, 2006

Pfeffingen (Pfalz region)

Pfeffingen 2004 Riesling Beerenauslese Gold Cap Ungsteiner Herrenberg
Firm and broad, here's a BA with beeswax, peach, mango and orange notes. It's driven by a vivid structure and lingers long and tangy on the finish. Drink now through 2030. (BS)
94 points - Apr. 30, 2006 | $56 | NA cases made

Pfeffingen 2004 Riesling Qualitätswein Trocken Grosses Gewächs Ungsteiner Weilberg
Complex, exuberant and luscious, this dry Riesling evokes grapefruit, peony, peach and mineral notes. It's firmly structured, with a rich texture up front and mouthwatering acidity on the finish. Drink now through 2015. (BS)
92 points - Apr. 30, 2006 | $35 | NA cases made

Pfeffingen 2004 Riesling Spätlese Pfalz Ungsteiner Herrenberg
Fresh, crisp and redolent of grapefruit, apple and spice notes, this 2004 Riesling shows fine balance and snappy acidity. It's focused and moderately long on the finish. Drink now through 2015. (BS)
89 points - Mar. 31, 2006 | $25 | NA cases made

Pfeffingen 2004 Riesling Auslese Gold Cap Ungsteiner Herrenberg
A fleshy auslese, with an open-knit frame holding the peach, beeswax and grapefruit flavors and lemony acidity. Not that concentrated, it has finesse and a moderately long finish. Drink now through 2015. (BS)
89 points - Apr. 30, 2006 | $31 | NA cases made

Pfeffingen 2004 PFEFFO Riesling Kabinett medium-dry
White peach, citrus and white pepper aromas and flavors mark this firm, tightly wound Riesling. It has density and richness balancing its lively acidity and will develop well over the next few
years. Drink now through 2010. - Bruce Sanderson
88 points - pick of the day Jan. 18, 2006 | $20 | NA cases made

Pfeffingen 2004 Dry Riesling
Dry and tangy, here's a medium-bodied Riesling sporting peach, floral and grapefruit notes. It's balanced on the crisp side, with a lingering finish. Drink now through 2010. (BS)
87 points - Apr. 30, 2006 | $15 | NA cases made

Schäfer-Fröhlich (Nahe region)

Schäfer-Fröhlich 2004 Riesling Eiswein Bockenauer Felseneck
Sweet and vivid, in a very elegant style, but in the end balanced on the tart side. Nectarine, apricot and citrus notes prevail throughout. Best from 2009 through 2030. (BS)
92 points - Apr. 30, 2006 | $165 | NA cases made

Schäfer-Fröhlich 2004 Riesling Dry Grosses Gewächs Monzinger Halenberg
Vibrant and delicate, this dry Riesling leans more on the citrus part of the flavor spectrum, with concentration and fine balance. It's crisp and mouthwatering on the finish. Ideal for seafood with yuzu and citrus-based sauces. Drink now through 2012. (BS)
91 points - Apr. 30, 2006 | $51 | NA cases made

Schäfer-Fröhlich 2004 Riesling Spätlese Bockenauer Felseneck (AP 17)
Great clarity here. Lime, spring blossoms, apple and mineral flavors are etched into the vibrant structure in this sleek, delicate white. It's pure, resonating through the long finish. Drink now through 2018. (BS)
89 points - Mar. 31, 2006 | $34 | NA cases made

Schäfer-Fröhlich 2004 Riesling Auslese Nahe Bockenauer Felseneck
Round and lush up front, yet with enough acidity to remain balanced, this is a softer style for 2004, showing apricot, pineapple and mineral flavors. A little less clarity and length than its peers, but satisfying. Drink now through 2018. (BS)
89 points - Apr. 30, 2006 | $58 | NA cases made

Schäfer-Fröhlich 2004 Riesling Dry Grosses Gewächs Bockenauer Felseneck
The bright structure takes center stage, with apple, quince, vanilla and lemon flavors a little submerged at the moment. A tad leaner than its peers, but shows persistence. Try with light seafood or a schnitzel. Drink now through 2012. (BS)
88 points - web only | $51 | NA cases made

Schäfer-Fröhlich 2004 Riesling Kabinett
A firm, coiled spring of a kabinett, featuring a core of grapefruit, nectarine and mineral flavors and a spine of acidity. It has a coating of flesh around it, plus balance, so be patient. White pepper aftertaste. Best from 2007 through 2018. (BS)
88 points - Apr. 30, 2006 | $25 | NA cases made

Schäfer-Fröhlich 2004 Riesling halbtrocken (mediun-dry) PDF
Rich and creamy in texture, with apple, white peach, herbs and white pepper flavors backed by a crisp, dry profile. Drink now through 2010. - Bruce Sanderson
87 points - pick of the day Feb. 25, 2006 | $20 | NA cases made

Wirsching (Fraken region)

not rated

Rudolf Fürst (Franken region)

Fürst 2004 Riesling Kabinett dry/trocken Bürgstadt Centgrafenberg
Dry, intense and full of white peach, apple and mineral flavors from start to finish. It's balanced and very firmly structured now, needing both age and food for its fullest impact. Drink now through 2012. (BS)
88 points | Price: $33 | Issue: Feb 28, 2006

Meyer-Näkel (Ahr region)

not rated

Adelmann (Württemberg region)

not rated

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Tasting Notes

Wine Spectator - 2004 vintage