2003 Joh. Jos. Christoffel Erben Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Auslese**
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Tasting notes
Subtle red berry and spice aromas with just a hint of white raisin. This displays an especially vivid rush of (tangerine) citricity even as it is exceedingly honeyed and rich. Offers a liveliness, rapier length and intensity of slate that are seldom encountered in this vintage. (DS)
Critic scores
Pierre Rovani
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Were it not for a note of alcoholic warmth detected in its finish, the 2003 Riesling Auslese Urziger Wurzgarten*** would have earned an even higher score. Sweet spiced apple and pear scents are detected in this concentrated wine’s aromatics. Armed with gorgeous depth, purity, and length, it slathers the palate with soft layers of pears, spices, and candied minerals. Projected maturity: 2007-2020. Readers should note that while the U.S. dollar has all but collapsed against the Euro and that shipping costs have risen due to higher fuel prices, this estate’s U.S. prices have barely budged in the last two years. Importer: Terry Theise Estate Selections, imported by Michael Skurnik Wines, Inc., Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300
Spicy, full, quite broad and dramatic glucose-syrup effect. (JR)
Aromatically displaying white flowers and pears, the light to medium-bodied 2003 Riesling Auslese Urziger Wurzgarten is a supple, tangy wine with impressive depth of fruit. Notes of vivacious minerals are intermingled with limes in its satin-textured character. Drink it between 2006 and 2015. ||Readers should note that while the U.S. dollar has all but collapsed against the Euro and that shipping costs have risen due to higher fuel prices, this estate’s U.S. prices have barely budged in the last two years. Wine Advocate.December, 2004