On March 21, 2012 it was all about the red wines from the Finger Lakes region of New York. Eight wineries and eight media representatives joined together for this unique one hour internet video meeting. There was nothing ‘virtual’ about this evening, there were ‘actual’ tastings and conversation. The wines were tasted and discussed in two flights.
Flight One
Chris Stamp from Lakewood Vineyards presented 2009 Lemberger | $16
Tricia Renshaw from Fox Run Vineyards presented 2009 Lemberger |$18
Peter Becraft from Anthony Road Wine Co. presented 2010 Cabernet Franc – Lemberger | $20
Tim Moore from Inspire Moore Winery presented 2010 Wisdom Cabernet Franc Reserve | $35
This flight showcased the region’s signature red wine; Lemberger. Lemberger is widely grown in Austria and Hungry but is only found in a handful of cool climate regions in the United Sates. Anthony Road Wine Cabernet Franc | Lemberger blend was a standout in this flight. With aromas of pine box, lemon and berry and flavors of vanilla, coconut and spice. The wine has a long finish with rich, bold tannins.
Flight Two
Glen Allen from Damiani Wine Cellars presented 2010 Pinot Noir | $29
Justin & Erica Paolicelli from Three Bro’s Wineries & Estates presented 2010 Barbera | $18
Vincent Aliperti from Billsboro Winery presented 2010 Syrah | $28
Steve Shaw, Jr, from Shaw Vineyards presented 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon |$25
This flight showcased the viticulture diversity of the region. In a region that is well know for Riesling, the glaciated landscapes and microclimates of this region are also producing a variety of red wines. The wine that stood out in this group was the Billsboro Winery Syrah. With aromas of mild wood chips and clove, this wine has a rich mouth-feel of dark fruit. This wine possesses the familiar varietal expression of Syrahs from the Rhone region of France. Aged 10 months in Hungarian oak has infused a welcoming smoky spice element.
While most all of these wines improved on day two, suggesting some aging potential among the Lembergers and decanting is in order if you want to enjoy these wines young; the Three Bro’s Wineries and Estates Barbera presented itself as a bit under-ripe and the Shaw Vineyards 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon was likely aged a bit too long, although it paired well with chocolate!
A special thank you to Stephanie Jarvis from Finger Lakes Wine Alliance for a splendid evening, and to the Winemakers for sharing your insight on these wines.
All wines were provided as media samples.
