Apple, rhubarb, and honeydew melon collaborate to lend Richter’s 2008 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Spatlese a juicy, tart, if rather spare personality, underscored by a decisive finishing sense of sheer stoniness. Like most of this estate’s 2008s, it promises serious aging potential – surely 12-15 years – if not much charm. “We had the November weather in October, and the lovely October weather in November,” says Dirk Richter of 2008, thereby essentially explaining his harvest strategy. He ameliorated acidity through skin contact; nature helped by precipitating tartrates; and nonetheless, some wines were de-acidified already as must. Richter is pleased to characterize the results as “classic Mosel Rieslings,” and since Richter spends a great deal of time promoting his wines in the U.S. I am happy to be able to concur in that description, even if some of his 2008s are only modestly successful. Richter admits that this collection is likely at least for the short term to be overshadowed by those on either side of it, but speculates that the 2008s will have their day if given time.Importer: Langdon-Shiverick Cleveland,?OH; tel. (216) 861-6800

The peach, apple, lime and slate notes are accented by a touch of vanilla in this delicate, creamy white, which is fresh and leaves a mouthwatering impression. Drink now through 2025. 550 cases made.??–BS??Region: Germany / Mosel Select to Add

A classic Spätlese epitomising Rieslings of the middle Mosel. Concentrated but filigree, with ripeness perfectly balancing natural acidity.