Keller Pettenthal Riesling Grosses Gewächs 2009

Robert Parker: From Keller’s inaugural vintage in the “Rotem Hang,” his 2009 Niersteiner Pettenthal Riesling Grosses Gewachs originated in the identical lot of grapes that informed the tiny amount of corresponding Spatlese, and which weren’t harvested until November 1, immediately before Keller commenced picking the chalky top sites in Dalsheim and Westhofen. Ripe peach, orange, almond, floral suggestions of buddleia and narcissus, as well as a peaty smokiness and an aura of crushed stone offer a dazzling, site-typical aromatic melange. Superb purity of fruit on a satiny, luscious palate encounter in this wine’s gripping and vibratory finish a near whiplash of smoky crushed stone mineral character, citrus rind piquancy, and catnip-like herbal pungency. This will be exciting to follow over the coming decade and hopefully beyond. 94/100 (2011)