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Bauerl Gruner Veltliner Wachau 2007 Austria

Another bargain. This entry level Gruner from the Wachau really comes through. Slightly nutty, Crisp and varietally correct

$14

Weingut Glatzer Blaufrankisch Carnuntum 2006 Austria

Walter Glatzer is one of Austria’s most consistent red wine producers. Here he is working with one of Austria’s indigenous reds, Blaufrankish. The wine has a dark color, is soft and fruity, and might be a good choice for Thanksgiving. The full flavor but lighter body will complement the many flavors on the table without weighing you down.

$19.50

Weingut Giefing "Cardinal Cuvee" 1999 Austria

Here is a wine that will convince anyone that great, red wine can come out of a bottle with German words on it. The Cardinal is a blend of two indigenous Austrian grapes; Blaufrankish and Zweigelt, with a splash of Cabernet Sauvignon. The vintage is 1999. The result is a wine that is smooth, complex and at its peak of drinkability. This wine reminded me of a fine, old Rioja. Perfect for a special holiday dinner. Limited.

$30

Weller Lehnert Riesling "Piesporter Goldtropfchen" Kabinett 2002 Germany

Piesporter is one of the most famous (and sometimes, infamous) wines in Germany. Because of the possibility for greatness here, there are a lot of producers who have been allowed to use this name, even though their vineyards do not represent the best parcels. Goldtropfchen is considered the best single vineyard and Weller Lehnert owns a prime parcel. Since this is a few years old, (2002 was a brilliant vintage here) the sweetness is a little less pronounced and the complex flavors and aromas are just coming to their full potential. Lime and green herbs are present here with good acidity. Pair this with trout or some sausages and sauerkraut. Or just drink it by itself.

$23

Gerhard Riesling Troken"Hattenheimer Schutzenhaus" Spatlese 2007 Germany

"Troken" means "dry" in German. We are seeing more dry riesling these days, partly due to warmer temperatures. This wine is bone dry with 13.5% alcohol. Lots of stuffing in this one. At the moment it's quite steely and should dispel anyone's notion that all riesling is sweet. This could stand up to any kind of rich pork dish but would also pair well with fish or poultry. I can only begin to imagine how good this wine would be in 5 years. Featured on our Newsletter page.

$26