The 2006 Riesling trocken Eierfels delivers fresh, pungent pineapple tinged with peach kernel, herbs, and wet stone. Impressively if rather severely concentrated, it lacks the refreshment or charm of Diel’s “village” Riesling. A dusty, chalky expression of minerality, salinity, and fruit pit bitterness attend the long if relatively austere finish. I would honestly give this a few years in the cellar before re-visiting, even though commercially speaking that can hardly be what is intended. Armin and his daughter Caroline Diel and an expanded crew brought in their entire 2006 crop in two weeks – less than half the normal time. As at so many addresses, yields were low in consequence of selectivity. This is a very fine vintage at Schlossgut Diel, even if not (as its predecessor was) a great one. Importer: Terry Theise Estate Selections, imported by Michael Skurnik Wines, Inc., Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300