The Würtzberg vineyard has a steep incline—up to 75 degrees—and its soil consists of red and blue slate that also contains a fair amount of clay. This means that the Rieslings created here in good vintages tend to be weighty and full bodied. These wines tend to drink young, have integrated acidity and a lovely depth of finesse. The 2005 vintage was, of course, outstanding.

This seamless Riesling is excellent from start to finish. White peach and bracing slate mineral notes dominate the nose and are backed by hints of honeysuckle and lime peel. The palate is juicy and expansive with loads of white peach, zesty green apple, pear blossom and nuances of ginger spice and iron-laced streambed stones. Its buoyant core is beautifully structured with fruit and well-integrated acidity that is layered with cool mineral tones and carries into a long, silky finish. This enchanting Riesling is a pleasure to drink by itself or with a host of seafood, Asian or spicy duck dishes.

—Donald

* The 2005 vintage is Bert Simon’s last vintage, as he has decided to retire. Bert Simon has long been a stellar fixture in the Saar. I have had the honor of working with him here in NYC—his warmth and easygoing nature made understanding and truly appreciating German wines a pleasure. He was a true ambassador of Riesling. The estate was recently acquired by a private investor, Dr. Jochen Siemens. Dr. Siemens has a genuine commitment to the future of the estates and we at PJ’s are eagerly awaiting his efforts from these storied vineyards.