Kerpen’s “one star” 2006 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Spatlese reflects a selection from higher-elevation parcels and preserves more fresh fruit as well as projecting greater refinement and elegance; polish and textural creaminess; and fresh fruit clarity, than the “no star” version. Prominent brown spice and vanilla, a hint of cask, and hints of fruit pit bitterness all lend complexity, and this finishes with lovely lift and length. No doubt it would be worth following for 15-20 years. Martin Kerpen and his vines had a hard act to follow after their successes in 2005 but were more than up to the task, confirming the hypothesis that these always excellent wines have crossed a new quality threshold. Still, the last place I would have imagined 2006s keeping pace was in the range of trocken.Importer: Terry Theise Estate Selections, imported by Michael Skurnik Wines, Inc., Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300

The Kerpen 2006 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Spatlese features vanilla cream, praline, baking spices, and hints of caramel in an elegant, rich but refined, highly recognizable expression of this great site. Soothing, wafting length makes this an ideal candidate for solo comfort wine, but it will probably have more to say as the sweetness backs off over time, and should be worth holding for at least 12-15 years.Martin Kerpen and his vines had a hard act to follow after their successes in 2005 but were more than up to the task, confirming the hypothesis that these always excellent wines have crossed a new quality threshold. Still, the last place I would have imagined 2006s keeping pace was in the range of trocken.Importer: Terry Theise Estate Selections, imported by Michael Skurnik Wines, Inc., Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300