The 2006 Gruner Veltliner Smaragd Hochrain is more multi-faceted in flavor and longer in finish than its Kollmutz counterpart (with virtually identical gross analysis). Faintly bitter herbal and floral elements dominate a palate impression with the sort of low-toned richness that typifies this vintage. Rudi Pichler picked and vinified with his usual sensitivity, thereby achieving a surprisingly broad stylistic range, even though the total length of harvest was unusually short. Flowering here just escaped the period of intense June heat that led to a reduced crop at most Wachau addresses.Importer: Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700

Silky-tasting, with aromas and flavors of white chocolate, ripe apple, white pepper and grapefruit that give this plenty of punch. The juicy finish is long, with hints of meringue and butterscotch. Drink now through 2016. 525 cases made.??–KM??Region: Austria / Nieder?sterreich / Wachau Select to Add

On the forefront are weight, superripe white fruits, intense pepper and considerable richness. It’s rococo in its ornamentation and its exuberance.——R.V.(5/1/2008)—— 92