Hermann J. Wiemer Riesling Finger Lakes Late Harvest 2009

Hermann is definitely the master of his domaine. This could be the best American late harvest Riesling ever made. Lively apricot and nectarine components lead to lighter elements of kumquat and gooseberry. A nice mixture of honeysuckle makes this a fabulous, not-to-be-missed Riesling. Light enough to go with full-bodied chicken, and an absolute knockout with lobster.

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.

Offers a mix of fruits, with melon and mango flirting with lemon, peach and yellow apple notes, all allied to a creamy texture. Nice length, with a more off-dry than obviously sweet feel through the finish. Drink now through 2010.

Off-dry, but with good freshness to the kiwifruit, pear and Granny Smith apple notes. The open-knit finish has nice persistence. Drink now.

This New York Riesling is reminiscent of a fine Alsatian vendage tardive with its rich floral nose and full body. Flavors of lemon, green apple, grapefruit and lime sweep through the palate, finishing with mineral notes. The finely tuned balance of sweetness and acidity lend this wine to richer foods such as broiled monkfish or your most decadent cheesecake.

Inviting, with a gorgeous beam of persimmon, apricot and blood orange fruit flavors allied to a creamy, lush frame. Fig, green tea and creamed pear notes then fill out the lengthy finish, with great underlying snap. Drink now through 2019.

This late-harvest white retains bracing aromas of passion fruit and citrus. its sweet melon flavors and luxurious length have both classic Spatlese weight and the briskness for Sichuan prawns.