red-newt-2011-sawmill-rieslingThough not quite as good as the stellar 2009 bottling, Red Newt Cellars 2011 Sawmill Creek Vineyards Riesling ($21) was still a standout in a recent tasting.

Opening with floral aromas, the nose quickly turns peachy, honeyed and with a squirt of lime juice and just-cut Gala apple.

Bursting with grapefruit, peach and lime flavors, the medium-bodied palate shows nice balance between richness and freshness thanks to juicy, citrusy acidity. That acidity stretches out the finish, which shows more lime and grapefruit flavors.

Producer: Red Newt Cellars
AVA: Finger Lakes
ABV: 11.1%
RS: 1.3%
TA: 7.9 g/L
pH: 3.0
Price: $21*

(3.5 out of 5 | Very Good, Recommended to Outstanding and Delicious, Highly Recommended)