2011 Riesling Maximin Grünhäuser Abtsberg Spätlese

Each in its own way, the past three vintages here have all been exceptional. A decade ago, this statement would have provoked little more than a yawn among most collectors, but today it's proof that, after a long detour, Dr. Carl von Schubert and his winemaker Stefan Kraml have put this estate back on track without sacrificing its individual style. The entry-level dry rieslings can still be a touch lean, but the kabinett and spatlese from the Abtsberg vineyard are at the top of their class. This inimitable label is again one that you can buy blind. Also recommended: 2011 Maximin Grunhaus Herrenberg Riesling Trocken Alte Reben (85), 2011 Maximin Grunhaus Abtsberg Riesling Trocken (86), 2011 Maximin Grunhauser Riesling Feinherb (85), 2011 Maximin Grunhauser Herrenberg Riesling Kabinett Feinherb (86), 2011 Maximin Grunhauser Bruderberg Riesling Feinherb Superior (86), 2011 Maximin Grunhauser Herrenberg Riesling Feinherb Superior (87), 2011 Maximin Grunhauser Bruderberg Riesling Spatlese (87), 2011 Maximin Grunhauser Herrenberg Riesling Spatlese (89), 2011 Maximin Grunhauser Herrenberg Riesling Auslese (90), 2011 Maximin Grunhauser Herrenberg Riesling Auslese #15 (91), 2011 Maximin Grunhauser Abtsberg Riesling Auslese #83 (93), 2011 Maximin Grunhauser Abtsberg Riesling Auslese #84 (93), 2011 Maximin Grunhauser Abtsberg Riesling Auslese #87 (94). Other wines tasted: 2011 Maximin Grunhaus Riesling Trocken, 2011 Maximin Grunhaus Herrenberg Riesling Trocken.