The state of German wine appreciation is in a strange place in this country. Ask any wine professional what is the best deal in the wine world and they will say, "German Riesling." Yet, upon hearing so, those outside of the industry often react with little more than a shrug and a request for basically anything else. The reasons for this situation are numerous and complicated, from a misconception in this country about the sweetness of German wine, to the unpronounceable words written on every label, and the less-than-stellar cultural reputation of Germany in the United States. Still, the fact remains that one of the world's greatest grapes is Riesling, and while Australia, Austria, France and even the Finger Lakes make remarkable Rieslings, it is still most at home when in Germany. "Hinterhaus", or "backyard", is always the first of the Rüdesheimer Berg sites to ripen because it is at the base of the mountain, catching the warming reflection off of the Rhine River. The site is also comprised of slate soil, which is known for its ability to retain heat. The warmer climate allows for more concentrated fruit and ultimately a bigger, richer wine. Rottland is recognized for his exotic yellow fruit and distinctive mineral structure, both of which show through charmingly in this bottling. This is Leitz's most full-bodied Riesling, at the driest level.