Groebe Aulerde Westhofen Riesling

Last week we reviewed a nice — and very affordable — German riesling from the Rheinhessen region, Fritz’s Riesling.  And tonight we’re checking out another riesling from the Rheinhessen region.

The Weingut Groebe estate was established way back in 1625, so these folks have been making riesling for more than a few years.  You might notice that the labels on these wines say 1763, and that is the year the family started bearing the coat of arms — which is also on their labels.  I’ve always wanted a coat of arms, but no luck for me there.  Oh sure, I’ve gotten the random junk mail trying to sell me my “official” family coat of arms, but I’m not that gullible.  In the case of Groebe, the coat of arms is legit.  And it includes the cross of St. Andrew’s in it, which is an old Christian symbol for wine.

But moving beyond the coat of arms, I know you’re interested in the wine.  And this particular one is good.  Really good.  OK, it’s excellent!

There’s a lot of complexity on the nose of this riesling.  It’s a little bit floral, a little bit mineral and a little bit lemon/lime.  It’s very well balanced and interesting to smell (yes, I’m nerdy in that way).  The palate is dry and presents a crisp acidity with a myriad of apple, citrus and mineral flavors.  The concentration of the flavors is just right too.  The finish is exceptionally long with a tangy citrus aftertaste that is just delightful.

This wine is a couple bucks more expensive than the Fritz’s we reviewed last week, but it’s still under $20.  And I’d say it’s worth the splurge.

Wine: Groebe Aulerde Westhofen
Variety: Riesling
Vintage: 2008
Alcohol: 13%
Rating:  91
Price: $17.00

Disclosure: This wine was received as a sample.