By Lenn Thompson, Executive Editor
I was first introduced to the Rkatsiteli grape when I tried the 2006 vintage bottling from Dr. Konstantin Frank Vinifera Wine Cellars. I was quickly hooked by the aromatic white that can be described as riesling-meets-gewruztraminer-meets-sauvignon blanc in its aromas and flavors with a beam of beautiful natural acidity.
Since then, Dr. Frank's Rkatsiteli has been a bit up and down for me -- always drinkable, but sometimes without the verve and length of that first taste.
Dr. Konstantin Frank Vinifera Wine Cellars 2009 Rkatsiteli ($15) is lemony on the nose with notes of citrus blossom, sweet herb, lemon verbena and golden raspberry.
Soft and juicy, the just off-dry (.45% RS) palate is driven by lemon-lime flavors with a sweet grassy note and hints of sweet pea. The finish is long with juicy, citrusy acidity.
Though perhaps a bit one-dimensional, the balance is good.
Producer: Dr. Konstantin Frank Vinifera Wine Cellars
AVA: Finger Lakes
ABV: 12%
Residual Sugar: 4.5%
TA: 9.3 g/L
pH: 3.21
Price: $15*
(3 out of 5, Very good/Recommended)
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