While harvested late in October, the 2006 Grauburgunder Smaragd Pluris is slightly lower in alcohol than this year’s Gruner Veltliner Smaragd bottlings. In the process of completing its alcoholic fermentation, it also underwent malo-lactic transformation. Still, there is no overt creaminess about this wine. Smoky, dark, roasted scents and flavors predominate with singed meat, toasted nuts, and dried peaches in a sappy, faintly warm finish. Importer: Vin Divino, Chicago, IL; tel. (773) 334-6700

A ripe white, with rich flavors of almond, mineral, peach, smoke and spice. Well-structured, with a creamy finish. Drink now through 2011. 217 cases made.??–KM??Region: Austria / Nieder?sterreich / Wachau Select to Add

The steeply terraced vineyard that produces Pluris has a single row of vines on each terrace to get maximum exposure. The resulting wine is intensely peppery, with flavors of white figs and spice and a long, soft aftertaste.——R.V.(5/1/2008)—— 90