2006 Riesling Graacher Domprobst Auslese A.P. #15

Willi Schaefer and his son Christoph make stylish wines that are always a pleasure to drink. Light and graceful in style, they impress more by their subtlety and charm than by their sheer weight. In fact, at their best, they are so fun to quaff that you have to think twice about their elegance in order to understand just how good they are. The pair enjoy a strong following in the States, but I felt they were underperforming during the first years of the new millennium; the last couple of vintages, however, have been notably better, with 2006 almost outshining 2005. I should point out that the Schaefers sent me different casks from those they sold to the American importer; however, generally the differences from lot to lot under a given label are minor. (Terry Theise Estate Selections; imported by Michael Skurnik Wines, Syosset, NY) Also recommended: 2006 Graacher Domprobst Riesling Kabinett (87), 2006 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Spatlese (89), 2006 Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Auslese (91), 2006 Graacher Domprobst Riesling Auslese #14 (91), 2006 Graacher Domprobst Riesling Auslese #4 (91), 2006 Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Beerenauslese (93). Other wines tasted: 2006 Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Spatlese Feinherb.