I am always trying to break my long-held beliefs in wine. Like German wine, for example - some great stuff, but nothing of interest at the low end, right? But after a nice experience with a cheap Riesling two months ago I have been poking around the German aisle more often, and noticed that the very nice "Essence" (by S.A. Prum) also had a sister wine called "Solitär". A perfect opportunity to compare two Rieslings - same vintage, same winemaker, both from Germany's Mosel-Saar-Ruwer appellation.The 2005 Essence Riesling was similar to last time, with perhaps more floral and apple aromas than I recall. Soft and juicy with a nice bitterness on the finish, it was once again a well balanced wine that would make a beautiful apertif, or pair nicely with a poultry or ham. Great value.
screw top, 11.5% alcohol
Score: 16/20
Price: $15.45 (SAQ)
The 2005 Solitär Riesling was white gold in the glass and a shade lighter than the Essence. While the drier of the two, it was sweet on the nose - almost marmaladey - with toasty caramel at first, later showing off its attractive floral and hay aromas. Very dry, this light bodied wine was minerally with nice, focused acidity. Lighter and crisper than the Essence, it would be a nice pairing with simply prepared whitefish dishes. Great value.
screw top, 11.5% alcohol
Score: 16/20
Price: $15.45 (SAQ)
Overall, these were great, inexpensive whites that would be ideal for the upcoming holiday season.
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4 comments:
I'm inspired by the leaf and garden shots. Though I think someone needs to find the rake :)
Hi Edward. I got the rake out just in time - we have snow - watch for the snow shots!
Hmmm... coincidence?
At the SAQ, $15.45 is definitely the number for suddenly affordable German Rieslings from the 2005 vintage. A friend served me the Villa Wolf this week. I was pleasantly surprised.
RE: fall in Montreal. Why the dark circles I've noticed the fallen Maple leaves this year? Any botantists in the house?
Hey Marcus - I have a couple of your suggestions, including that Friuli merlot, just waiting for the perfect occasion - may have to go find that Villa Wolf. The dark circles are 'tar spots' - see this site for more details. Actually we first got them last year or the year before, and they won't go away.
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