General drinking in Alsace

A couple of bottles squeezed in between tastings.

Riesling Grand Cru Altenberg de Bergbieten 2002, Frederic Mochel

A reasonable pleasing nose of fruit which, together with its creaminess, suggest this should be reasonably attractive. The palate, alas, is not so pleasing. It is quite one-dimensional. A passable drink, but don’t expect any fireworks.

Gewurztraminer Vendanges Tardives 2002, Andre Kientzler

Lots and lots of botrytis on the nose, very apricot. But is there is Gewurztraminer spice and banana finesse to it. The palate is quite dry, with a powerful, weighty structure. Not much minerality, I have to say, but nice enough.