2006 Hirsch Riesling Gaisberg
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Tasting notes
Slightly richer is the more impressive 2006 Syrah Estate Reserve. It reveals plenty of black fruits intermixed with underbrush, forest floor, and licorice notes, an attractive meatiness in the mouth, sweet tannin, and a good finish. While not profound, it will offer pleasant drinking over the next 4-5 years. Tel. (805) 693-8384; Fax (805) 693-8383
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
David Schildknecht, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2006 Riesling Gaisberg soars from the glass with a profusion of ripe peach and mango; lilac and lavender; and pulverized stone. The sweetness of fruit and flower on the palate is stronger than the wine’s nine or ten grams would suggest. It finishes with real panache, floral perfume and the persistent suggestion of sweetness. Expect this to shed some baby fat over the next several years and make for ideal enjoyment from ages 5-7. Hirsch picked earlier than ever this year, and (with the exception of a Riesling Zobing I found marginally too lean, at least in its first bottling) achieved ripe, satisfying results at relatively low levels of alcohol, thanks in part no doubt to excellent vineyard management, but also to a fearless willingness to leave behind some residual sugar. Importer: Terry Theise Estate Selections, imported by Michael Skurnik Wines, Inc., Syosset, NY; tel. (516) 677-9300