Wine Blogging Wednesday #71 “Rhones Not From The Rhône.” — Sterling Vineyards Carneros 2008 Roussanne

Posted on March 16, 2011 by Michael Gorton, Jr.

When I started to take part in the Wine Blogging Wednesday as a blogger I always looked for a wine that fit the topic that was from my neck of the woods.  I was trying to push Long Island through Wine Blogging Wednesday.  When it went on hiatus, I was left with nothing to do for one Wednesday a month.

When it was announced that it would make its trimphumpant return, I re though my original plans for Wine Blogging Wednesday. With the revitalization, I decided to expand my palate and look to chalange myself and my readers with going global.  Thinking off the Island and outside the box.

When “Rhones Not From The Rhône.” was announced I knew that this would be a challenge since I am not to familiar with Rhône wines — to find them elseware was even more of a challenge.  Here was our assignment:

The theme for WBW 71 is, “Rhones Not From The Rhône.” Pick any wine made from a variety best known in The Rhône but not made in that famous French region. It doesn’t matter if the wine is white, pink or red; still, sparkling or fortified. Whatever you choose just needs to be made from primarily a Rhone grape and come from a region not in France. This opens up a lot of possibilities. Want to stay Old World? Check out Spain where Mourvèdre goes by the local name Monastrell. New World more your bag? Pick up a Roussanne, Marsanne or a blend from California or Australia. I even hear they are making some pretty decent Viognier in Virginia these days so finding a wine should be pretty easy wherever you call home.

The Rhône wine region consists of two major regions, Northern Rhône and Southern Rhône.  The northern sub-region is know for making wines the Syrah grape, sometimes blended with white wine grapes, and white wines from Viognier grapes. The southern sub-region makes array of red, white and rosé wines, often blends of several grapes such as the famous Châteauneuf-du-Pape region, which is in Southern Rhône.

Sure, I could have done Syrah, what I like from the Rhône. Or I could have done Mourvèdre, but I had that for another Wine Blogging Wednesday.  I could have gone with Viognier, and I could have had some from Long Island, but I have had Viognier before and I really wanted to keep off Long Island.  Long Island and Viognier would have been a last resort.

While looking up Rhône varieties, one jumped out off the page.  I had one in my cellar.  Roussanne!  I knew it was from outside the Rhône since it was part of our Cellar Club shipments from Sterling Vineyards in California (we joined their club when we were honeymoon in Napa & Sonoma in 2008).  But what was this Roussanne? I knew I had never had one before.

Roussanne get’s its name from the russet or roux color of the grape skin.  This and Viognier are the only two white grape varieties allowed in Rhône. It is a very difficult variety to grow; it is susceptible to downy mildew and irregular yields.  It has been almost forgotten about.  There are still a few that produce it, but it does usually get blended.  It is rare to see it in a single varietal.

In the late 1990’s there was a huge increase of Roussanne plantings in Central California and according to my research, one of the Rhône Rangers, Randall Grahm of Bonny Doon Vineyards is partly the reason for its popularity in California.  There was some controversy with the Roussanne that was planted, in the late 1990’s it was revealed that the Roussanne that Randall Grahm “acquired” from France, after DNA analysis was in fact Vioginer.  Randall Grahm disputed that fact and law suits followed.  You can read about the escapades in an article by Jancis Robinson and here from Tablas Creek Journal.  That being said, from what I was able to find out, Sterling Vineyards no longer produces a Roussanne.

About the wine, after harvest, the wine was pressed and cold settled for two nights.  Older French oak barrels were used for fermenting and aging.  The wine was stirred on the lees regularly and keep until it was bottled.

On the nose I was picking up a floral note with hits of almond, peach , apricot and nectarine.  Honeysuckle and jasmine tea aromas filled the glass as the wine came closer to room temperature.  When I had the wine colder, notes of crushed stone and grapefruit citrus with subtle hints of ginger and green tea.

On the palate there was loads of tropical fruit with an oily viscus mouth feel.  Secondary notes of apple, pear and spice led to a creamy lime like feeling.  There was some heat with the wine.  It is listed at 15.1% ABV, but the alcohol and the acidity was well integrated and despite the oak aging, it still showed ripe fruit flavors.

I liked this wine served chilled, despite the fact that it was recommended to serve a little colder than room temperature.  I enjoyed the acidity, tropical fruit and spice notes of it.  Picture Ripe pineapple drizzled with honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon with a some lime foam.

Closer to room temperature I found the 15.1% abv a little too much for my delicate palate.

This was my first Roussanne and it won’t be my last.  I am glad I did not choose a Viognier from Long Island or a Monstrell from Spain.

A big thanks to Tim Elliot of Winecast for hosting and to Lenn Thompson from The New York Cork Report for starting Wine Blogging Wednesday many moons ago.

Melissa and I at Sterling Vineyards.

Sláinte!

Posted in 2008, Non Long Island, Roussanne, Wine Blogging Wednesday | 5 Comments

Heron Hill Vineyards 2008 Unoaked Chardonnay

Posted on March 16, 2011 by Michael Gorton, Jr.

Heron Hill Vineyards on Keuka Lake is a vineyard with wonderful views of the lake and their vineyards.  A vineyard I would definitely visit when in the Finger Lakes Wine Region.

While there, be sure to taste through their lineup of white and red wines.  Sure most folk visit the finger lakes for the world-class Riesling, but at Heron Hill Vineyards, don’t over look their Chardonnay.

Heron Hill Vineyards makes two Chardonnay’s an Oaked one and this one, Heron Hill Vineyards Ingle Vineyards 2008 Unoaked Chardonnay ($16).   Both are delicious and distinctive.  I happen to like the Oaked Chardonnay, but that is where my palate is right now.

On the nose I was picking up what I would call classic Finger Lakes aroma, stoney minerality.  Notes of peach, apple and spice with hints of lemon and citrus.  Herbal with notes of fresh-cut lemon grass.  As the wine comes to room temperature it shows more spice with hints of apple skin.

On the palate it shows tangy lemon with lively bright acidity.  There is a hint of herbs on the back-end of the wine with some stony minerality.  A nice moderate finish with hints of apple and spice.

Sláinte!

*I received this bottle as a sample from the vineyard
Posted in 2008, Chardonnay, Finger Lake Region, Heron Hill Winery, Ingel Vineyard | 2 Comments

Channing Daughters Winery 2007 L’Enfant Sauvage Chardonnay

Posted on March 14, 2011 by Michael Gorton, Jr.

If I had to pin point the moment that my palate started this recent liking to Chardonnay, it was the day I had this bottle of wine from Channing Daughters Winery.

When I had first tasted this almost a year ago during a tasting with Debbie Huneken, she warned me that this was not just any old Chardonnay.  She was right.  This, in my opinion is how I like my Chardonnay.  And now, I can’t stop searching for Chardonnay like this.

Channing Daughters Winery 2007  L’Enfant Sauvage Chardonnay ($35) is now sold out, the 2008 was just released, is simply translated to “Wild Child”.  This chardonnay is spontaneous wild fermented and goes throughout a second spontaneous fermentation, wild malo-lactic fermentation, all while being aged in new French and Slovenian oak.  The wine ages on lees for about 12-14 months before it is blended and bottled.

On the nose I was picking up notes of warm buttered toast with delicious yeasty notes.  Followed by apple pear and peach.  Warm baking spices show with hints of vanilla and nuts, think fresh hazelnut.  In the background I noticed a salinity note.

On the palate, baked apple and white pepper lead the way with bright acidity and notes of tropical citrus.  More warm spices with pineapple, pear and some peach appear at the back-end with a hint of creamy butterscotch.

The wine is lush and delicate at the same time.  It’s creamy, bright and delicious with the wood influence not squashing the beautiful fruit of the Chardonnay.  This wine is well-balanced that really craves food.

If you have not had this wine, please make it a point to try it out.  I am hoping to get my hands on the 2008 offering and from here on out, trying to keep some in my cellar for the long-term.

Sláinte!

Posted in 2007, Channing Daughters, Chardonnay, Long Island | Leave a comment

Waters Crest Vineyards 2008 Private Reserve Chardonnay

Posted on March 9, 2011 by Michael Gorton, Jr.

IMG00307-20101228-2139Chardonnay is a grape variety that does not get a lot of love here on my blog.  There are times throughout the year that I despise chardonnay and refuse to drink it.

Then there are times, like now, where it seems I am opening a bottle almost weekly.  I will forever be on the fence with chardonnay, but I have grown to accept it, like it, and more importantly, enjoy it – no matter if it sees oak or not.

Right now, I am on a kick with barrel fermented chardonnay.  And this offering from Waters Crest Winery satisfied my cravings.

Waters Crest Vineyards 2008 Private Reserve Chardonnay ($25) was hand harvested from Steve Mudd’s home farm in Southold on the North Fork.  Steve Mudd is a long time grower and vineyard consultant/manager on the North Fork.  Steve first planted vines on his home vineyard in 1974 and since then he has helped many do the same at many vineyards across Long Island.

On the nose the wine brought aroma’s of toasty buttered bread with hints of yeast, baked apple and pear and the slightest note of lemony citrus.  There was a slight hint of vanilla and marshmallow as well.

On the palate, I was picking up notes of apple and spice, baking spice and hints of butterscotch.  Zinging acidity balanced out the full body, lush, buttery mouth feel.  Flavors of citrus and straw also filled my mouth as the wine came closer to room temperature.

I strongly urge you to drink this wine off chill.  By drinking this wine cold, which I did at first, squashed a lot of the delicious fruit flavors.

This wine was perfect with baked chicken and a creamy and buttery risotto.

Sláinte!

Note: This bottle was given to me as a sample to review.

Posted in 2008, Chardonnay, Long Island, Waters Crest Winery | 1 Comment

Getting ready for… “Summer in a Glass — The Coming of Age of Winemaking in the Finger Lakes”

Posted on March 8, 2011 by Michael Gorton, Jr.

Summmer-in-a-Glass-PB-finalI really don’t sell anything on this blog.  Just not my style.  I will talk you into buying local wine and maybe some vineyard events.  However, it ends there.  Except for today.  I am not a sales person, but today, I really think you should buy this book from Evan Dawson.

I know Evan from The New York Cork Report.  I met him at last years TasteCamp in the Finger Lakes.  Evan takes being a wine enthusiast to another level, that level is this book. “Summer in a Glass – the Coming of Age of Winemaking in the Finger Lakes.”

If you have never been to the Finger Lakes wine region, you should go.  If you have, then this book will be a reminder of the region.  If you have ever met any of the people who make up the region, this book will help you remember those meetings.  If you never met those people, no problem, Evan will introduce you to them.  If you have never been to the Finger Lakes, than this book will make you want to go.

Yesterday on Facebook I asked you 3 questions, and if you answer yes to any one of them, you should buy this book.  Here are those questions again:

  • Do you like wine?
  • Do you like to read?
  • Do you like to save 50%?

Right now, Barnes and Noble is selling this book for 50% off cover price.  For less than $10, you can pre-order this book which is set to be released on April 5th. Go here to get this great discount on this book.

And if you have any doubts about this book, read this excerpt from the book.

And if you are still not convinced, watch the trailer…

I knew the video would make you buy the book.

I have yet to read the book, but based on the trailer, the excerpt from the book and the reviews I read on Evan Dawson Writes, this book not just about wine or the Finger Lakes or about wine making.  In my opinion, it is about what goes into every single bottle of wine, the love, the passion, the pain, and the rewards of those people who make the wine we love; An element of wine enjoyment sometimes we take for granted.

Posted in Finger Lake Region, News, Notes, Thoughts | Leave a comment

Waters Crest Winery 2009 Riesling

Posted on February 25, 2011 by Michael Gorton, Jr.

You are not going to see Riesling growing anywhere near Waters Crest Winery.  Jim Waters, owner and wine maker at Waters Crest Winery sources all of his grapes from various vineyards on Long Island to make his wines in his winery in Cutchogue.  This Riesling is not sourced from Long Island, but sourced from New York State, you can see that on the label.

Waters Crest Winery 2009 Riesling ($24) is a rare find.  Jim does not release a Riesling all the time and when he does it usually is because the fruit is perfect or the juice is a stand out.  This Riesling shows very nicely.  Bringing fruit and mineral notes with delicious mouth-watering acidity.  If this was the summer, it would be perfect.  However, since this is the winter and if you are serving pork or a traditional German dish, make sure this bottle is on the table.

The Nose brings aromas of apricot and peach with hints of honeysuckle and tropical fruit.  River rock slate and a squirt grapefruit juice appear at the back of the palate.

Zippy zinging acidity appear up front on the palate with notes of river rock and juicy lime.

Well balanced and delicious, this is made in an Alsatian style, bone dry.

On day two, this wine was showing notes of candied citrus and dried tree fruit with the faintest hint of orange citrus.

Sláinte!

Note: This bottle was given to me as a sample to review.
Posted in 2009, Long Island, New York State, Riesling | 1 Comment

Pindar Vineyards 2007 Merlot

Posted on February 21, 2011 by Michael Gorton, Jr.

IMG00165-20100830-2051 When most think of Long Island red wine most think of Merlot.  When you ask folks who know about some of the best Long Island vintages they will point to 2007 as being one of the best yet – from the early looks of 2010, it may surpass all.

From Long Island’s largest producer, Pindar Vineyards, comes this fine, easy drinking Merlot.  Pindar Vineyards 2007 Merlot ($15).

Plum, Blackberry and Raspberry dominate the nose with hints of earth, smoke and cedar.  The fruit does come across as being concentrated along with a hint of dried herbs and spice.

The tannins are light and has a good amount of acidity.  The ripe berry flavors come across as concentrated on the palate with a hint of vanilla spice.

The finish is moderate with a hint of dark cherry and a dusting of coca powder.

This wine is a crowd pleaser, light and fruity, but not jammy or sweet perfect for every day.  It was great alone or would have been nice with some grilled veggies over a light tomato sauce.  At $15.00, this is a great value and is an affordable way to introduce and show friends and family how great the 2007 vintage was.

Posted in 2007, Long Island, Merlot, Pindar | Leave a comment

The New Wine Maker on the Block: Meet Pindar Vineyards Assistant Winemaker Edward Lovaas

Posted on February 17, 2011 by Michael Gorton, Jr.

This past summer was a whirlwind of activity with wine makers moving from one vineyard to another.  Three local wine makers moved in all, with Kelly Urbanik going from Bedell Cellars to Macari Vineyards, Rich Olsen-Harbich leaving Raphael and going to Bedell Wine Cellars then Les Howard left Pindar Vineyards and moved across the street to Raphael.  What a game of musical chairs.

After the dust settled, Pindar Vineyards was left without a wine maker.  When I had spoken with Pindar Damianos shortly after the announcement that Les was leaving, he hinted that they would be looking off Long Island to bring in some new blood to be part of the winemaking team that was now led by Jason Damianos.  After a long search Pindar Vineyards found their new assistant to Jason.  After a weekend on Long Island and a series of interviews, Edward Lovaas was hired as their assistant wine maker and added to the Pindar team.

Edward comes to Long Island from Mendocino California.  A retired Marine — Edward served four years in the military Police with the Marine Corps.  After being discharged, he decided to get into the local Mendocino wine country and he began working for Gabrielli Winery with harvest in 1997.  That is where he found his passion for wine and wine making.

Edward during the 2010 harvest. Photo from Newsday.

In 1998 Edward landed a job at Graziano Family of Wine working and studying under Greg Graziano.  He considers Greg Graziano a second father.  At Graziano, Edward worked with such varietals as Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, pinotage, Sangiovese, Tocai Friulano, Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc and Zinfandel, just to name a few.  While at Graziano, Edward also worked at UC Davis Extension Program by making their small test lot wines.

After years of studying under Greg Graziano, Edward move on to Pietra Santa Winery.  While there, he made some very nice wines, but he also had the opportunity to make olive oil.  While at Pietra Santa Winery, Edward attended UC Davis distant learning program in Viticulture and Enology.

In 2005 Edward started to get into the consulting end of winemaking and returned to his roots and returned to Gabrielli Winery.

In 2008 Edward decided to take some time off and follow another passion of his, scuba diving.  He was and instructor and helped out with the popular television show MythBusters and other shows on BBC.

In 2009 Edward returned to winemaking as a Counsulitng Winemaker in southern California.

On August 1, 201o he left the west coast for the east coast when he took the title of Assistant Winemaker at Pindar Vineyards.

Dr. Dan Damianos, Edward, Nicole & Pindar Damianos. Photo from Patch.com

A while ago I met up with Edward and Pindar at Pindar Vineyards in Peconic.  We tasted through some of the 2010 wines that were going through fermentation or some that were just about complete.  This was my first opportunity to taste some of the juice that will be red wine and white wine from the amazing 2010 vintage.

I had asked Edward a few questions during the visit, tasted some wine and got to know this young winemaker from the other coast.  Edward struck me as an intense, matter of fact type of  individual.  He is intelligent with an impeccable palate.  Edward came to Long Island for the challenge.  The opportunity to make wine in a cold climate, maritime region is one he wanted.  From our conversation I got the feeling that making wine in california was boring.  The climate is relatively the same and there is not much difference between vintages.

When he arrived, after driving across the country with his Fiance and his 3 horses, he arrived with just about 3 weeks to get ready for harvest.  He said the fruit looked great but he was not ready for the low yield.  Edward was used to 3-4 tons per acre compared to the 1.5 – 2 tons here on Long Island.

Edward also told me that he never had a wine from Long Island before.  Not that is a problem, because when he arrived he made it a point to visit every Long Island tasting room.  He was very impressed with what he tasted.  His favored Long Island wine that he tasted was a rare, wine club only offering from Wolffer Estate –a 2005 Barbera.  Too bad they don’t have those vines anymore.  I asked him what his favorite Pindar wine was — Sauvignon Blanc.  And when Edward is not drinking Graziano Zinfandel, or Pindar Sauvignon Blanc, what are you drinking, Edward said “Mendocino Brewing Company’s Eye of the Hawk.”  Yet another winemaker who loves beer.

I had asked him what varietals did he like working with. “Pinot Noir, Grenache, Nebbiolo and Arneis.  Because those grapes are where you separate the cooks from the chefs.”  Now Grenache, Nebbiolo and Arneis are not found here on Long Island, but Pinot Noir is.  Duck Walk produces a Pinot Noir and from the first tasting of the 2010 Pinot Noir, that pinot will be amazing.

The big question is what can Edward bring to the winemaking team at Pindar Vineyards.  I know he can bring new ideas and new energy, I can see that just by talking with him.  I asked him what he thought he could bring to Pindar Vineyards, his answer was point-blank “wines with impeccable balance”.  He also mentioned that he would like to see some new labels.  By labels I assume he means new releases from Pindar Vineyards and if that means there are new releases then there will be new labels.  I had a chance to taste one new one which I will talk about later that really blew me away.

Edward is used to working with big, high alcohol wines.  You are not going to find them year in year out here.  Though 2010 you might find a few in the future — Pindar Vineyards Cabernet Franc was harvested at 27 Brix!  But the short time I have known Edward, I think his impact will be noticed and help make the wine making team at Pindar shine.

I always save my favorite question for last.  I love the see the responses and I always want to take part in the meal — “Your last meal would consist of what wine and food”  Edward replied, “A bottle of 2004 Chateau Rayes Chateauneuf du Pape (100% Grenache), bottle of 2002 Domaine de la Romane’e Conti and rack of lamb with mushroom risotto and roasted cauliflower.  Sorry but great meal need a minimum of 2 wines.  I would most likely have 4 glasses in front of me.”   Hungry?

Edward is such a great guy.  I am glad the Pindar team and Edward hit it off right away, just as Edward and I did.  In fact, Edward is the force behind me starting my own little tasting group.  We talked and e-mailed about a group he was a part of back in California and he really wanted one here.  I am glad he pushed me to do it, we have assembled a nice little group.

So the next time you are out at Pindar Vineyards, stop in and welcome Edward to Long Island.  In fact, this weekend,February 19th Pindar Vineyards will be opening up their barrel cellar and you will be able to taste some of the wines that Edward has been working on since he arrived.  What an excellent opportunity to meet Edward and get an early taste of the soon to be amazing 2010 vintage.  In fact you just might see me and my son Gabe there.

Posted in Eight Great Questions, Long Island, Pindar, Winemaker, Winery Visit | 2 Comments

Wine Blogging Wednesday #70 Spain!: Vionta 2009 Albariño

Posted on February 16, 2011 by Michael Gorton, Jr.

It’s been a while since Wine Blogging Wednesday (WBW) appeared here on Undertaking Wine.  It went on hiatus, but after much chatter and finally announcing , in so many words, “back – by popular demand”, Wine Blogging Wednesday has made it’s triumphant return.

Wine Blogging Wednesday — started by Lenn Thompson of the New York Cork Report –was a way for bloggers and wine enthusiast to gather via their blog or more recently via micro-blogging like on twitter and taste wine based on a subject or topic created by the host.  If you think about it, world-wide, everyone tasting wine then talking about it is a way for people to meet, get to know each other and more importantly, explore a region or wine with others and discover a wine they have never had before.

When I started to follow wine blogs, I loved reading the follow-ups on Wine Blogging Wednesdays.  I always found them educational and it also opened up my google reader to new and exciting blogs.

When I finally decided to join the blogging world, I was excited to participate in Wine Blogging Wednesday officially as a blogger in September 2009.  When it vanished in May of 2010, there was a hole in my blogging world.

I am glad it’s back – because in all reality, Wine Blogging Wednesday was one of the many reason I created this blog.

When word was spread that WBW was returning, it was announced that Catavio, husband and wife team, Ryan and Gabriella, blogging pioneers living and loving Spain, would be hosting, the turned to their neck of the woods — Spain.  They came up with the following points we must try to uncover in WBW #70: Spain!:

  • Choose a Spanish wine or wines to taste on Wednesday the 16th of February.
  • Seek out Spanish wines that you’ve never had before! Get creative! Hunt for unique styles such as a Sherry, Cava, Fondillon or Mistella; an unheard of region like Arribes, Txakoli de Alava or Extremadura; or a unique native grape like Prieto Picudo or Treixadura.
  • Write a post about the wine, flushing it out with life and subtle detail, then publish it on Wednesday, February 16th.
  • Tweet about it with the tag: #WBW70 thus creating a live tasting by time zone as we go around the globe!
  • Finally, send an email to us with a link to your article and include the subject line: “WBW #70 Submission

The second point was easy for me to do.  I have had very little experience with Spanish wine.  I immediately hit my Jancis Robinson’s “The Oxford Companion to Wine“ and examined Spain.

My first attempt was to taste and explore Amontillado, a spanish Sherry.  I am an Edgar Allen Poe fan, and I had the post developing in my head around a Bottle or “Cask of Amontillado“…I just needed the wine.  The Amontillado was hard to come by other than the standard $10 bottle.  I wanted something more than that.  When my escapades fell through, I decided to focus on a wine region of Spain that would be kinda like my home region of Long Island.  The Rias Biaxas region jumped right out of the page.

Rías Baixas region of Spain is located in the Pontevedra, community of Galicia, Spain.  It is on the coast of norther Spain, just north of Portugal.  They have and atlantic climate, since they are on Atlantic Ocean.  Rain fall is high and they have damp, wet winters.  They are a cool climate region and might be considered maritime considering how close they are to ocean waters, like Long Island.  When I investigated the wines of the region, I found that there is only one major variety — a variety that I have never had before, until tonight.  That major variety grows in 90% in the Rías Baixas region and that variety is Albariño.

By choosing Albariño, I knew this I was going to have fun with it for my WBW post.  I always try to make a connection to my home wine country, Long Island.  And this year Palmer Vineyards grew and made Albariño and Bedell Cellars planted some this off-season.  While there may not be a lot to go around, I thought that if I ever had the chance to taste it, I would know and have some experience with the variety.

Rumor has it that the Albariño grapes were brought to Iberia by the Cluny monks in the 12th Century.  Albariño translated means “white wine from Rhine”.  It has been thought that this was a clone of Riesling coming from the Alsace region of France.  It is also believed to be a close relative of the Petit Menseng.  I could see how this variety could be confused with the Riesling variety.  You will notice this in my notes as some of the aromas were very similar to the Riesling grape.

I searched my local wine shop for Albariño from the Rías Baixas region of Spain.  I was also looking for a price point under $20.00.  I was very happy to find this bottle of Vionta 2009 Albariño ($14.99).  I was scoring on all fronts.  Now lets hope I would be an  Albariño fan.

On the nose I was picking up some apple, melon, mango and hints of white peach.  There was a sweet honey-like aroma that I could not distinguish.  There was also a nutty, almost blanched almond like note.  There was a floral hint that reminded me white flowers, but it was not overpowering at all, subtle and enticing.  As it warmed to room temperature there was a bit of a spice note with a dusting of white pepper.

The palate brought bright tingling acidity with hints of lemon curd, minerality and tropical  citrus juice.  Notes of baked apple and mango finished the wine that came across as almost lush.

The finish brought a bit of fresh herb and some spice with a hint of salty ocean water essence.

The wine was distinct, with a nice fruit finish with a hint of fresh garden herb.  It carried for a while and I kept finding myself reaching for another sip.

If I had tasted this wine blind I may have thought it was a Riesling or even Viognier.  I could have also guessed it was an old Gewürztraminer with a touch of steel fermented Chardonnay.  Distinct and exotic with nuance, it really captured my attention and more importantly, my palate.

I am mad at myself for taking so long to discover this Iberian gem.  Lessons learned.  Albariño is a wine that will appear on my table this upcoming summer.  But on this cold and windy February night here on Long Island.  This wine was perfect and what this house was looking for.

Mission accomplished!  Wine Blogging Wednesday #70: Spain! was a success.  I have discovered a new grape.  Explored a new country.  Finished a delicious and affordable bottle.  Exposed my family to this grape and most importantly, found a variety other then Pinto Grigio that my Mother-In-Law likes. I can’t wait to try some of Long Island’s Albariño when and if it is ever bottled and released.

Special thanks to Ryan and Gabriella at Catavio for hosting and especially to Lenn Thompson of The New York Cork Report for giving life to Wine Blogging Wednesday.  Let’s keep this going!

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Posted in 2009, Albariño, Spain, Wine Blogging Wednesday | 2 Comments

Pindar Vineyards 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon

Posted on February 8, 2011 by Michael Gorton, Jr.

It is rare that you see me with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon.  I find it difficult to get into.  It’s not that I have not had well made Cabernet Sauvignon, it is probably just not my style.

After Thanksgiving, I attempted to try some Cabernet Sauvignon, to get my head into this varietal.  It is the winter and you will see me drink more hearty red’s and Cabernet Sauvignon fits that description.  This Cabernet Sauvignon is from Long Island’s largest producer, Pindar Vineyards.

Pindar Vineyards 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon ($15) and sold out at the tasting room, but you may find this at your local wine shop.

On the nose there was elements of dark fruit concentrate, blackberry, boysenberries, black cherry and bramble.  Vanilla and spice rounded out the nose with hints of cedar, toffee and espresso roasted coffee.

The palate brought notes of spice, tobacco and dried herbs with grilled plum fig.  Concentrated macerated berries also wer showing with hints of chocolate.  There was a smoke and cured meat.

The tannins were big and notes of toasty oak dominated for a while but over time things started to mesh in the glass.  The finish brought notes of fresh mint with hints of fruit bramble.  Deliciously aromatic and at $15, this wine is a great value and a great example of how wonderful the 2007 vintage was without breaking your bank.

Sláinte!

Posted in 2007, Cabernet Sauvigon, Long Island, Pindar | 2 Comments

Influence Wines 2009 Riesling

Posted on February 7, 2011 by Michael Gorton, Jr.

Influence Wines is the project of Premium Wine Group production wine maker Erik Bilka.  Now I have never met Erik, but this bottle arrived in my hands thanks in large part to Robin Epperson-McCarthy, assistant winemaker at Marth Clara Vineyards.  Robin used to be the Lab director at Premium and has known Erik for years.

I first found out about this wine on a twitter tasting a long time ago were the object was to taste a Finger Lakes Wine Region Riesling.  I had tasted Anthony Nappa Wines, Luminous, which was made with juice from the Finger Lakes.  Robin at the same tasting, from the comfort of her home was tasting Erik’s Influence Wines 2009 Riesling.   Two Long Island wine makers making wine with Finger Lakes juice.

It took a while for me to get my hands on it.  It took even longer for me to try this wine.  (I somehow was placed out of my sight).  Here is what I found while I tasted Influence Wines 2009 Riesling.

On the nose I was picking up a heavy aroma of lime and rocky stoney minerality.  There was some bright clean granny smith apple notes as well with a hint of grapefruit.

The grapefruit carried over onto the palate and was much more pronounced.  Zinging acidity with lemon lime citrus juice with a stony finished the palate.

This Riesling was lively and kept the essence of Finger Lakes Riesling, after all it was made with juice from there.

My wife and I shared this wine with a roasted pork loin with asian spices and a soy marinade.  The wine paired well with the meal.

I hope that Erik continues to make wines like this and expand his varietals.  Not having your own fruit can be a problem, but working at Premium I am sure there is a good chance that some very nice fruit or juice comes Erik’s way.

Sláinte!

Note: This bottle was given to me as a sample to review.
Posted in 2009, Long Island, Riesling | 1 Comment

Peconic Bay Winery 2007 Cabernet Franc

Posted on February 2, 2011 by Michael Gorton, Jr.

A while back I wrote a post about my visit to Peconic Bay Winery.  I had told you then that I wanted to do a post about one of my favorite wines that I tasted that day, Peconic Bay’s 2007 Cabernet Franc.  I brought a few bottles home with me to get into the wine a little more and more importantly to taste at home and with some food.  I am glad I did.

My notes that day had words of herbal, raspberry, cherry, smoke, black pepper, ripe tannins and juicy acidity.  I found that the freshly opened bottle showed the tannins being big and up front.  They were good tannins, but since this was a young wine, it really needed the justice of having some time open.  To breathe, even in a decanter if possible.

Peconic Bay Winery 2007 Cabernet Franc ($28) is a wine that needs time to open up and flex its muscles at first, but later on, it shows its delicate side and show’s why Cabernet Franc, when grown in the best of seasons, shines on Long Island.  And why it is now sold out.

This is a blend of 80% Cabernet Franc and 20% Merlot.  It spent 18 months in french oak barrels before it was bottled.

At home over the course of 3 days of tasting, this Cabernet Franc expressed itself beautiful.  Loads of raspberry, strawberry and cherry notes filled the glass.  Deep aromas of fruit concentration.  Notes of cedar smoke and tobacco with hints of vanilla and dried herbs.

The tannins were big and up front, but over time the mellowed on the palate to bring flavors of mixed berry pie — raspberry, blackberry and cherry.  subtle herb notes like mint and a touch of rosemary.  The acidity was juicy and made me keep coming back for more.

I am not good at predicting a wine’s shelf life, but I do know that the combination of Tannins and Acidity will help this wine age for some time.  If you are luck enough to have a bottle or two, hold onto them, they will for a while.

Sláinte!

Posted in 2007, Cabernet Franc, Long Island, Peconic Bay Winery | Leave a comment

Martha Clara Vineyards 2007 Malbec

Posted on January 31, 2011 by Michael Gorton, Jr.

Malbec is grown across Long Island, you don’t see alot of Malbec bottled as a varietal on Long Island.  I believe that there are a handful of vineyards that bottle Malbec on its own.  Most vineyards use it in blending, where you will find it in may Bordeaux style blends.  A handful only bottle it when there is an outstanding vintage, like the 2007 vintage.

As a single varietal, Malbec has grown in popularity thanks to Argentina.  You can also find it in Cahors, France where Cahors grows Malbec.  When you see Cahors on the label, you know it is Malbec.

I don’t have much experience with Malbec but when I first tasted this Martha Clara Vineyards 2007 Malbec ($24) when I visited Martha Clara it captured my attention and was the clear favorite from my tasting that day.

On the nose I was picking up jam like juicy berries with hints of prune and plum, baking spice, cocoa powder, violets and hints of banana skin and some mint leaf.

The palate brought flavors that reminded me of black tea leaf, black pepper and fruit compte.  Plum and grilled fig with hints of tobacco and earth.

Big gripping tannins with nice acidity made this wine a delicious pairing with a grilled flank steak.

The finish brought some sweet vanilla with hints of baking spice.

This offering from Martha Clara vineyards was only offered to those in their wine club, which it usually only is mainly because of the low production of Malbec.  If you happen to get you hands on this save it.  Let it age a little in the bottle.  You will not be disappointed.

Furthermore, from what I have heard, Malbec will be back at Martha Clara with the 2010 vintage.  That is fantastic news — if you are a wine club member.

Sláinte!

Note: This bottle was given to me as a sample to review.
Posted in 2007, Long Island, Malbec, Martha Clara | 1 Comment

Looking Back at 2010 — A Wine-derful Year.

Posted on January 27, 2011 by Michael Gorton, Jr.

Now that the year is over and we have to write 2011 on our checks — something I can’t get used to — I thought I would take a few minuets and give you some of my highlights of 2010.  This is where I went, what I experienced and what I loved about 2010.

2010 was a busy year that marked a few milestones and life changing events that have made 2010 so memorable.  From the birth of my son, to our 5th year in our house, (that means only 25 more years to go on the mortgage…YAY!) to our visit to the Finger Lakes, to meeting so many wonderful people in my wine world.  There really is so much to mention.  It took me this long to do this but I was able to narrow it down to my “Top Ten List of Stuff I Did in 2010”:

10. Introducing you, my readers to Long Island Wines. It’s not as easy as it looks.  Tasting wine keeping notes, pairing it with meals then writing about it.  But I love it.  If someone reads my blog, other than me, and is inspired to buy a Long Island Wine or prepare a meal around a Long Island wine, then I did my job.  I never really consider this a job, it’s my hobby.  I just take the time, when I have time, to let you know what I am tasting and enjoying out in Long Island Wine Country.

9. Sharing my love for wine with my family and friends. There is no greater joy than offering someone wine and watching their eyes light up with joy and happiness when they have tasted something delicious.  I also get a kick of trying new wines out on people in hopes they expand their palate and try new wines.  That, after all is the reason I explore wine and the reason you should too.

8. Being President of the Medford Chamber of Commerce.  This occupies alot of my time and sometimes limits the amount of content I get up on this blog.  It takes me away from my blogging and sometimes away from my new family.  But my family at the Medford Chamber of Commerce makes it all rewarding.  We work well together striving to make the Medford Community the best it can be.  I have finished my first year as president and have another to go, but according my board, I was elected for life…we shall see.

7. Meeting new wine people.  Maybe we met in a tasting room and we chatted about wine, or at a vineyard walk and we talked about wine, or in a wine shop and I helped you with some wine — even thought I don’t work there, no matter how our paths crossed, I was glad we met and chatted.  Some of our conversations have inspired me, I hope that I have inspired you.

6. Attending the “Smackdown’s” at Roanoke Vineyards. Tasting wine blind is a rewarding challenge.  Tasting wine blind with others in a competition is a lot of fun but humbling.  To see where you palate is and how you taste blindly against far superior palates is a true test of ones wine knowledge, not to mention a riot.  Roanoke Vineyards is doing some wonderful things with their “Smackdown’s” and other blind tasting events.  I have found them educational and extremely helpful in my exploration of wine.  I look forward to more of these events and hope more vineyards and wineries offer similar events.

5. Working as a cellar hand at Raphael Vineyards.  I never got to put my experience on the blog, but it might just still get on there.  But this harvest season, I was able to sneak away and help Les Howard, Raphael’s new wine maker out in the cellar one day.  It was a lot of hard work, but at the same time exciting.  We were making some rose that day and it was, to this day the most rewarding experience I have had in my wine life.

4. Participating in Taste Live tastings. I have learned over the past year, that tasting alot of wines is the best way to improve your palate.  This year I was fortunate to take part in events sponsored by the Finger Lakes Wine Council, Kunde Estates, Wildman Wines, Three Stick Wine and the Virginia Wine Council.  The opportunity to taste wines, with wine makers and vineyard folk and other bloggers across the country on live via twitter is remarkable.  And extremely educational.  I hope to take part in more online tastings in the future.  I may have not been able to get posts up on these events, but I can assure you, you have helped me expand my palate.

3. Being a member of a tasting group. In the beginning of 2010 we had a great little group of guys that got together and tasted wines.  This was another part of my wine education that I learned from.  The summer came and we found it harder to make the time to meet.  Then Gabe came along and that hurt our opportunities, but in a good way.  I am happy to say that we are getting back together soon.  This is something I look forward to in 2011.

2. Visiting the Finger Lakes Region while participating in TasteCamp 2010. The best way to get to know wine is to taste wine, alot of it.  Mother’s day weekend, I was in the Finger Lakes and tasted more wine than I could keep up with.  I tasted so much wine, that by the last day, my tongue could not take another mouthful of Riesling.  IT was very happy to taste some Pinot Noir.  I grew to love Riesling, had some of the best Gewürztraminer and met some awesome wine enthusiasts.  Not to mention the region and the people who make up the region of the Finger Lakes.  Memories that will last forever.

1. Gabriel Noel. I really never thought anything could surpass the day Melissa and I got married at Shinn Estate Vineyards.  I was wrong.  The birth of our son Gabe on July 27, will be a day that I cherish in my heart forever.  I added another title to my protofiolo, Husband, blogger, funeral director…and now father.  He gave us a big scare in the beginning, but now, almost 6 months later, he is doing great and Mommy and Daddy could not be happier.  There is nothing more important in my life now that I am a father and we now have a family.  So if you find me posting less frequently, blame the cutie pie below.

Posted in 2010, Long Island | 5 Comments

Waters Crest Winery 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon “Grand Vin”

Posted on January 25, 2011 by Michael Gorton, Jr.

Those of you who know me, know I am not a huge Cabernet Sauvignon fan.  There are a few I have had that are memorable and some not so memorable.  I guess my thing with Cabernet Sauvignon is why is it the “it” wine.  I find it heavy and oakey at times and a bit overpowering.  It reminds me of a wine that MUST be consumed with food.  I, however, like to consume wine by itself.  There is nothing I enjoy more than searching the net, watching television or trying to read a book with a bottle of wine.  I find it hard to do with Cabernet Sauvignon.

This bottle of made me stop and pause and say to myself, I could drink Cabernet Sauvignon every so often.  In fact, I said, I could drink Cabernet Sauvignon like this often.

Waters Crest Winery in Cutchogue is a boutique winery that has no grapes on it’s property.  Jim Waters — owner and winemaker chooses his grapes from various point on the North Fork.

I wrote about Jim and his home winemaking gig turning mainstream over a year ago.   He is that success story, from making wine as a hobby, retiring, and then moving on and making your hobby a reality.  He would be my idol if I were a home winemaker.

Waters Crest Winery 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon “Grand Vin” ($45) is grand indeed.  The “Grand Vin” name is used for only those exceptional vintages.  2007 was just that and 2010 is going to be another.

On the nose I picked up loads of blackberry and plum.  Rustic and earthy with hits of menthol.  When I say earthy, it is fresh turned earth.  I was also picking up some barnyard aromas, something that I enjoy.  Notes of tar, leather and fresh ground coffee arise along with hints of smoky meat and vanilla spice.  There was a distinct aroma that reminded me of peppery pastrami.

Velvety tannins and great acidity were balanced nicely.  The tannins were showing stong at first, but with some time in the glass, they balanced out.  I would love to taste this wine again in about 10 years.

Dark berry bramble and plum dominated the palate with hints of menthol and smoke.  There was a medicinal flavor that gave way to notes of dried blackberry and prunes.  Fresh earth appeared with notes of dried herbs.

The finish was long that carried a bit of a minty tart cherry flavor.

This wine was packed with nuance and kept me in the glass for hours.

To think that there were only 149 cases of this wine made.  Some would say that $45 may be a lot to drop for a bottle of wine, but if you invest wisely and hold on to this young Cabernet for a while, you will be rewarded nicely years from now.

Sláinte!

Note: This bottle was given to me as a sample to review.
Posted in 2007, Cabernet Sauvigon, Long Island, Waters Crest Winery | Leave a comment

Channing Daughters Winery 2008 Blaufränkisch

Posted on January 24, 2011 by Michael Gorton, Jr.

A very long while ago I visited Channing Daughters Winery in Bridgehampton.  Since Channing Daughters is on the other fork of Long Island, I often forget to go and visit and taste their wines — shame on me for that.  Lenn Thompson, over at the New York Cork Report had helped me out with making arrangement for my visit.  Unfortunately I was not able to meet and taste with Christopher Tracy and his wife Allison Dubin, they were out of town on vacation.

Fortunately, Debbie Huneken, was there that day.  Debbie helps in all aspects of Channing Daughters Winery; she works in the tasting room, helps with the newsletter and wine club, and has been known to help stomp grapes with her feet from time to time.  I had alot of fun tasting with Debbie, she is a true wine geek and helped me get a better understanding of Channing Daughters, what they are all about and how they make their wines.

I must admit, I feel ashamed that I was unable to complete the post about my visit.  I tasted alot of wine that day, some wines and blends I tasted for the first time;  I found it hard to put my experience to paper.  Sure, I could have rattled off my tasting notes, but the experience I had at Channing Daughters was one of the best.  Sometimes when I am out tasting, I enjoy a wine or a winery so much, that I am unable to put my thoughts into cohesive sentences.  So I scrapped it.  I did however leave with a few bottles of wines that really struck me as beautiful, expressive and noteworthy wine.  All of Channing Daughters wine could be described that way, however a few stood out.  And this was one of them.

Channing Daughters 2008 Blaufränkisch ($25).  Blau-WHAT!  Blau-frank-ish; for those of you who like things done phonetically.  Blaufränkisch is a German name given to the noble grape “Frankish”  It has sometimes been refered to as the Pinot Noir of Eastern Europe.  Blaufränkisch is also known as Lemberger.

This is Long Island’s only varietal of Blaufränkisch.  The 2008 has 25% merlot blended in it.   You will see Blaufränkisch in some other reds at Channing Daughters.

On the nose I was picking up fresh ripe cherry with hints of black pepper and spice.  Earthy smoky with hints of mint and dried herbs.  Notes of blueberry and a briny — caper or olive brine elements were in the glass.

The palate brought loads of cherry and black licorice with hints of plum, black pepper and spice.  There was also an element of pastrami as well, it was meaty and peppery.

The acidity was bright and the tannins were well-integrated.  It gave a peppery finish.

Tasting this blind it had me thinking it was a Cabernet Franc or a Pinto Noir.  Very interesting grape and one that really opened my eyes.

Make sure you visit Channing Daughters and give this a try, along with their other excellent offerings.  I hope to visit them soon and taste again through their portfolio.

Posted in 2008, Blaufränkisch, Channing Daughters, Long Island | Leave a comment