Somewhat of a follow-up to a recent Dale Williams tasting note on Naegler's '01 Berg Rottland. In Dale's case the wine was an $8 bargain that turned out to be cooked; this one is a $10 close-out bargain from the same shop that is drinking superbly.
The color certainly looks fine for a 5 year old Spaetlese: a bright gold with a slight greenish tinge. Lovely nose too, with just a hint of petrol. A very big bodied wine: still appears to be carrying a few percent RS, despite the 11% stated alcohol. Not subtle, with lots of tropical/lemony fruit and a deep core of minerality. Everything balanced just right - this is drinking really well right now, but could hold for longer. A superb value from the Rheingau.