Glenora Riesling Finger Lakes, New York 2009
This bottle was given to me by my friend and colleague Phil Ward, who is on the Board of Directors of the International Riesling Foundation and frequently travels the country as a judge at wine competitions. Needless to say, I trust his palate, especially when it comes to Riesling. So when Phil handed me this bottle, I had to try it.
As it turned out, I wasn’t disappointed.
Immediately from the nose, bright aromas of ripe apricot, candied peach, and bit of banana erupt from the glass, along with the slightest hint of petroleum (but in a good way). The palate flows with fresh fruit salad flavors: peach, pineapple, pear, apple, and grapes. Texture is smooth, the finish is clean. It’s not completely dry — there is some residual sugar here — but it’s not overbearing nor cloying. It was a good match for smoked ham, and even better with spicy boneless chicken wings.
Enjoyable on its own as a refreshing quaffer, I highly recommend it as a match for spicy hot and sweet and spicy dishes — such as might find on an Asian or Indian menu. At around $12-13, this is a good value.
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