With high acidity making for a stinging mouthfeel, and 1.3% residual sugar giving some, but not enough, soft relief, the result is a compromise between a sweet and a dry wine, which will satisfy fans of neither. Still, it’s ultraclean, and the apple and honeysuckle flavors are appealing. ——S.H.(12/15/2010)—— 85

Comes down on the off-dry side of the flavor spectrum, with a honeyed, wildflower taste to the peach, apple and pineapple flavors that have that diesel, petrol Riesling thing going on for added interest. High Monterey acidity makes it all brisk and clean.——S.H.(11/15/2008)—— 87

German-style Riesling continues to be a real success for Ventana. The ’06 shows a crisp structure housing appealing citrus, wildflower, spice and vanilla flavors, with a distinctive diesel note. Finishing slightly sweet, the wine makes for a wonderful cocktail sipper.——S.H.(3/1/2008)—— 87

From one of the most underrated white wine appellations in California comes this crisp, fruity wine, resembling a nice German Kabinett. With apple, jasmine, peach and grapefruit flavors, it straddles the line between dry and off-dry. Good with Asian fare or fusion.——S.H.(12/15/2006)—— 85

Easy-drinking and clean, with mineral and acidic crispness from high acidity, and delicate flavors of citrus, apricot and apple. Has a full degree of residual sugar, but that brilliant acidity makes it drink almost dry. The finish turns tart and almond-skin bitter.——S.H.(9/1/2003)—— 87