Best friends

[Florida Jim]

Best friends are a combination of many things, not the least of which is some unknowable and unrepeatable chemistry that makes the attraction stronger, if for no other reason than its mystery.

So, last night we celebrated our final evening with George and Cheryl. It had been an eventful four days, with combinations of business and pleasure, pointed discussion and comfortable silence, out-loud-laughter and gentle tears; a visit that won’t be easily forgotten. Nor will those bright moments when, just because we were all together, the day seemed effortless.

Even our dogs will miss them.

With a Thai shrimp and veggie stir-fry over rice:

2001 Knoll, Riesling Durnsteiner Schutt Smaragd:

an attractive floral and mineral driven nose with suggestions of apple, sea-air and a vague tropical element; somewhat closed/

medium body, a bit edgy in the mouth as well as a bit closed, flavors follow the nose with a distinct emphasis on the mineral aspects, firm structure, quite concentrated and extremely intense, well balanced/

uncommonly long, very crisp finish.

This wine is as focused as any I have had. It gives the impression that what is latent is even greater than that which is showing – and that is plenty.

Time will be very good to this wine.

2001 F.X. Pichler, Riesling Reserve “M”:

extremely expressive and powerful nose of white fruit, resin, mineral, flowers and honey; penetrating and complex; remarkably forward/

full body, viscous and smooth, more forward on the palate than expected but also showing more depth and breadth of flavor than the Schutt, tremendous concentration, ripeness and intensity with perfect balance; complex and dense but still fresh and lively/

astonishingly long.

This kind of concentration is rare and, when coupled with this kind of structure and balance, all the more so. Despite being so approachable, its hidden power is suggested at every sip. Big and elegant at the same time, the paradox of a great wine is unmistakable.

Profound.

To best friends then,

Jim