Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/884376
october 2017 / the tasting panel / 73 THE VENERABLE BISCHÖFLICHE WEINGÜTER Trier (Episcopal Wine Estates of Trier), assembled over time from the vineyard holdings of various religious bodies, has a centuries-old winemaking tradition. The historic city of Trier lies in a valley on the Mosel River between low vine-covered hills. The Rieslings from this estate—which consists of a diverse group of core plots in the legendary steep slopes along the Mosel, the Saar, and the Ruwer, with a total area of 98 hectares (242 acres)—show finesse, classic elegance, silky texture, and great depth. 90 Bischöfliche Weingüter Trier 2016 DOM Off-Dry Riesling, Mosel, Germany ($18) Fresh, juicy, and balanced with racy style, tangy citrus and smooth texture; bright, lively and long. 88 Bischöfliche Weingüter Trier 2016 DOM Dry Riesling, Mosel, Germany ($18) DOM (German for cathedral) is the entry-level tier from this winery. Racy and dry with lively acidity; steely, minerally, and crisp. 89 Bischöfliche Weingüter Trier 2016 Scharzhofberger Riesling Kabinett, Mosel, Germany ($23) From the coolest site on the Saar River. Smooth and spicy with minerals and juicy fruit; long and fresh. 92 Bischöfliche Weingüter Trier 2016 Bernkasteler Off-Dry Riesling Kabinett, Mosel, Germany ($23) Bernkastel is at the heart of the Mosel. Smooth, silky and juicy with tangy peach and apricot; fresh and bright on the finish. 91 Bischöfliche Weingüter Trier 2016 Ayler Off-Dry Riesling Kabinett, Mosel, Germany ($23) Lush and juicy with minerals and tangy peach; crisp, smooth, and tangy. A great wine for a cheese course. 92 Bischöfliche Weingüter Trier 2016 Ürziger Würzgarten Riesling Kabinett, Mosel, Germany ($23) From one of the Mosel's most celebrated vineyards. Silky and smooth with lush peach and juicy style. 93 Bischöfliche Weingüter Trier 2016 Piesporter Goldtröpfchen Riesling Kabinett, Mosel, Germany ($23) A stunning wine at an amazing price. Rich, dense, and creamy with juicy peach and lush style; tangy, fresh, and balanced; long and lovely. 93 Bischöfliche Weingüter Trier 2016 Kanzemer Altenberg Riesling Kabinett, Mosel, Germany ($25) Lush and bright with peach, rich style and off-dry fruit; creamy and juicy; sweet and elegant. 90 Bischöfliche Weingüter Trier 2015 Kanzemer Altenberg Pinot Noir, Mosel, Germany ($28) An unusual German Pinot Noir with bright ruby color ; silky and fresh with notes of earth and bright cherry; juicy and deep with balance and good length. SCHMITT SÖHNE USA Bischöfliche Weingüter Trier A view of Trier.