In each of the past five vintages, the guru of Grüner in the United States has earned a Platinum for his Green Lizard program. Stephen Reustle names it for the mascot of Austria’s famed Wachau Valley, and he crafts this in a style that references the lots of Grüner Veltliner grapes that were the ripest at harvest. As a result, this tier is arguably the most approachable and expressive of his Grüner lineup. It opens with white pepper, starfruit and quince aromas that lead to a beautifully balanced drink of Bartlett pear and Golden Delicious apple. The fruit, spice blend and citrusy notes make this really pop on the palate for a long and pure example. Qualifying awards: Critics Choice (platinum), Great Northwest Invitational (double gold)
Rating: Double Platinum • 97 points
Production: 320 cases
Alcohol: 12.6%
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