For little more than the price of the dry version, consumers seeking noble sweetness can purchase Wiemer’s 2007 Riesling Late Harvest. Pear, quince, and candied citrus rind inform this silken-smooth, quite sweet, but persistently juicy offering. Very subtle hints of botrytis pungency in no way disturb the admirable sense of purity on display here, and while there is certainly refreshment to be had here, one will not confuse this wine’s overall softness with any German Spatlese or Auslese. This wine is ideal simply for sipping over the coming 3-5 years.Last year, pioneer Finger Lakes wine maker and nurseryman Herman Wiemer sold his winery to his long-time assistant, Fred Merwarth. No one should expect this to bring significant changes in the wines other than a continuation of the steady improvement and emergence into an international spotlight that has been Wiemer’s legacy. (And he continues to be directly involved in operations at the winery that bears his name.) The latest crop of Riesling bottlings here includes two fascination single block wines that transcend the price ceiling for this report but are well worth consumers’ attention.Tel. (800) 371-7971

Rich citrus and melon in the aromas and on the palate give this wine a luxurious edge. Good acidity balances the unctuous mouthfeel, and the package ends with a spin of lively lemon. An elegant, special sip.——S.K.(12/15/2009)—— 87