Wine Spectator Highlights FL Rieslings

The online version of Wine Spectator has posted a two-part article and tasting highlights of Finger Lakes Rieslings ( March 4th and 7th 2008). “Riesling from the Finger Lakes region of New York offers a consistent bright spot in quality”. The Spectator tasting report listed Anthony Road, Atwater Estate, Red Newt Cellars, Belhurst Esate, Buttonwood Grove, Rooster Hill, Chateau Lafayette Reneau, Hosmer, King Ferry, Ravines, Fox Run, Sheldrake Point, Damiani, Heron Hill, White Springs Farm Estate, Swedish Hill Winery, Deer Run and Silver Thread wineries.To quote the Wine Spectator, “…the recently released 2006s show the nice spine and tangy, lime-driven notes that Riesling lovers adore”. Part two of the article will focus on Rieslings that move up the sweetness scale.Over the past four years The Finger Lakes Wine Alliance has promoted the high quality Riesling wines that are produced in the Finger Lakes region. The Alliance is an industry association dedicated to building the brand of the Finger Lakes.The Finger Lake Wine Alliance has selected FLWA President, Bob Madill, winegrower & Partner of Sheldrake Point Vineyard as a board representative to the recently formed International Riesling Foundation. According to Madill “This invitation to join the IRF board is a recognition of the work of the FLWA, and the significance and respect for the Finger Lakes as a region producing world class Riesling wines.”The Finger Lakes Wine Alliance also announces the third Riesling Summit to be held at the Astor Wine and Spirits Center in New York City on May 8, 2008. The Summit is entirely focused on Riesling and will include a seminar hosted by Josh Greene, Editor of Wine & Spirits Magazine followed by a walk around tasting of additional Finger Lakes Riesling wines. The walk-around tasting will also feature regional food stations prepared by chefs from the Finger Lakes.The seminar will present an exploration of Finger Lakes terroir as evidenced by Riesling from the 2006 vintage. The tasting will examine connections to vineyard location and wine growing circumstances. The intent is to explore and discover world class Finger Lakes Rieslings with the audience.The Finger Lakes Wine Alliance mission is to increase the visibility and reputation of the Finger Lakes region and its wineries.