2006 Keller Westhofen Kirchspiel Riesling Spätlese

Keller is a winery in Rheinhessen with a cult following, thanks to its Grand Cru-like dry Rieslings. The estate is owned and operated by the Keller family, and son Klaus-Peter is now in charge of day-to-day operations. Wine writer Jancis Robinson has called Keller Riesling “German Montrachets.” And Robert M. Parker Jr. has noted that over the past decade, “Klaus-Peter has brought the meticulous vineyard and cellar practices and overall ambition here to a fanatic level.”

Rheinhessen is Germany’s largest “anbaugebiete,” or “quality wine region.” With 65,000 vineyard acres located along the Rhine, it is in the center of Germany’s wine industry. And, for many years, the region was known primarily for producing large amounts of bulk wine blends. In recent years, however, it has become one of the most exciting wine producing areas in Germany, thanks in large part to an energetic group of young, talented, worldly winemakers who have shaken up the region with a return to traditional, rather than industrial, winemaking methods and an emphasis on quality. The dominant grape in Rheinhessen is Muller-Thurgau, followed by Riesling, Sylvaner, Scheurebe, and several others.

This white variety originated in Germany. It’s known for its strong flowery aromas and high acidity. Please note Rieslings can have dramatic differences as the grape can be used to make dry, semi-sweet, sweet and sparkling wines.