Wiemer_08HJWBy Lenn Thompson, Executive Editor

As I mentioned last week in my review of this wine's sister wine — the Hermann J. Wiemer 2008 Magdalena Riesling — the best way to taste the Wiemer single-vineyard rieslings is to do so side-by-side. That's the best way to taste the clear differences born in the vineyards.

Briefly stated, the HJW Vineyard is in a much cooler spot than the Magdalena Vineyard and it's as apparent in the glass as it is on any temperature chart or weather map.

Citrusy on the nose, the Hermann J. Wiemer 2008 HJW Vineyard Riesling ($39) shows Meyer lemon and sweet lime aromas with subtle floral, laspang souchong tea and peach notes. The peach aromas, and an interesting almost-creamy note, emerge as the wine warms to room temperature.

Extremely focused, the palate is dominated by lemon-lime and green apple with a distinct almond nuttiness and more of that intriguing tea character — particularly on the finish, which is a bit tightly wound right now.

Firm, but extremely well-integrated acidity frames these flavors well, pointing at several good years ahead in bottle.

Producer: Hermann J. Wiemer

AVA:
Finger Lakes

RS: 0.8%

ABV: 11.5%

Price: $39*
Rating: 91

(*Ratings Guide)