Originating largely in the lower slopes of the Schlossberg (with more particulate matter) the 2005 Riesling Cuvee Saint Catherine also incorporates parcels from just outside that cru. Almond honey lemon oil peaches and pungent hints of botrytis spice in the nose prepare the way for a densely-concentrated rich oily-textured pungently spicy and faintly bitter palate that lacks the refinement clarity or precision of the Schlossberg bottling. Tactile fruit skin and botrytis give the non-sweet finish of this Riesling a certain gritty extension that offers counterpoint to its honey and peaches. The dynamic trio of Fallers continues to bottle some of France's (hardly just Alsace's) richest and most flamboyant wines. Beginning with 2005 all of their vineyards are being biodynamically farmed. Laurence Faller finds their 2005s in general "more focused and clear" (this was especially true of Riesling) despite their often prominent botrytis component and the 2004s richer. I suppose it goes without saying but one has to carefully scrutinize each Weinbach label so numerous are the cuvees. And as wonderful as is the distinctiveness exhibited by the vast majority of wines here even a geek like yours truly could be forgiven for asking whether somewhat fewer different ottling might benefit consumers as well as journalists!

Apple and floral aromas and flavors gain added complexity when mixed with hints of orange peel honey and white pepper. Racy acidity and minerality lead to a fresh tangy finish. Drink now through 2012. 180 cases imported. –BS