The 2005 Riesling Smaragd Steinertal offers imposing richness of fruit, less of the site’s overt peppery character than the corresponding Gruner Veltliner, and a crystalline sense of minerality allied to crystal-clear fruit (supported by five grams residual sugar). Purple plum and grapefruit feature in the nose and on the palate. A long, refined finish weaves salty mineral traces, subtle white pepper, citrus, herb and pit fruits. This wine will respond well to time taken to meditate on its intricacies or time in the cellar. It is certainly the alter ego of the often veritably volcanic rendition of Steinertal Riesling vinified by F. X. Pichler. Importer: Terry Theise Estate Selections, imported by Michael Skurnik Wines, Inc., Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300