Sappy and ripe, the rhubarb- and grapefruit-scented 2006 Gruner Veltliner Wachtberg preserves a clear, juicy character, with a pleasantly chewy fruit skin note and both saline and pungent suggestions of minerals in its strikingly bright, long finish. I see no need to be in any hurry to enjoy this; it should keep nicely for at least 4-6 years. Erich Salomon succumbed to cancer last November (less than a week before Alois Kracher), but Berthold Salomon will continue the recent advances in quality at this estate as though his older brother were still looking on. Most of the harvest here took place in the second half of October.Importer: Terry Theise Estate Selections, imported by Michael Skurnik Wines, Inc., Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300

A creamy, smooth wine, flavored with pears, even lychees and full, ripe Gruner Veltliner. This shows the rich side of the grape, while still keeping its essential freshness. Typical pepper flavors come to finish. Glass stopper.——R.V.(12/31/2007)—— 90