Grosset Polish Hill Riesling: 2005 vs. 2006

[niloc]

I justed tasted the 2005 last night -- my first time with this well-respected wine. I was blown-away! I haven't drunk such a satisfying -- both cerebrally and sensually -- riesling in a long time. In fact I'd say that it is the only dry Riesling I've had that can compete with my favorite Alsatian producer -- Trimbach. Fabulous intensity, length and balance, and certainly a wine that will cellar very well, although it is delicious now. My question is simple: is there anything to choose between the 2005 and 2006 vintages of this wine? Both are available stateside for roughly the same price. I find it hard to believe that the 2006 could be much better than the 2005, but if it is I'll seek it out.

Thanks for the board's help in advance!

Colin Winston

[Neville K]

Hi Colin,
The 2005 is far more linear, tightly coiled and more searing in intensity, length and lime citrus profile. It is slatey and minerally. It is a stupendous wine. If you can get your hands on the 2002 that would be a more interesting comparison. But 2005 v 2006, knock out win to the 2005.
BTW How much in the States?
Neville K

[niloc]

Neville --

The 2005 can be obtained for about $US 27.00. Not exactly cheap, but extremely good value, IMHO, for a wine of this calibre. Recent vintages of Trimbach's Cuvee Frederic Emile, which is of comparable quality, start at about $35.00, making the Grosset even better value.

Colin

[Neville K]

Colin,
Trimbach's Cuvee Frederic Emile is a top tier riesling. For Grosset Polish Hill to be considered in the same league is a very flattering asessment. In Australia the Cuvee Frederic Emile would be at least double the price of the Grosset, so value wise I would stock up on the Alsatian riesling, but there is powerful dryness in the Polish Hill which provides a distinct version of the noble variety. It's good to have both styles I suppose.
Neville K