2026 ARRIVALS FROM KUNSTLER

This may be a bittersweet few days of tasting, as Gunter Künstler has changed his American importer, and it’s an open question whether and how I might continue to receive samples. It remains to be seen. But I’m more confident that Gunter and I will stay friends, as he is a lovely and remarkable soul with whom I’ll make every effort to keep in touch and maintain our accord.

As far as Riesling goes, and much as I hesitate to apply singular superlatives, I think Künstler is the best in the Rheingau. If that is jarring, let me phrase it like this – he is first among equals. Looking at the winery as a whole – whites of various varieties, reds, sparkling wines (among others) you can only celebrate the sheer conscience and craftsmanship in every element of this exemplary estate.

I got a single case of samples, so this is a culling I assume was assembled with purpose. As usual I’ll start by tasting reds, in this case two Spätburgunders (out of 12 listed on the winery’s online shop).