Ravines Wine Cellars 2008 Argetsinger Vineyard Dry Riesling
By Lenn Thompson, Editor-in-Chief
Often in the wine world certain wineries or vineyards are noticed by a writer or two and a huge mountain of hype ensues — sometimes warranted and sometimes not.
If you've been paying attention to the Finger Lakes region for very long, you've heard the hype about Ravines Wine Cellars and winemaker Morten Hallgren. If you're a bit more of a geek, you've probably heard about Sam Argetsinger and his vineyard on Seneca Lake.
In this case, the hype is warranted.
If I were to start a winery in the Finger Lakes, Morten would be on the short list of winemakers I'd try to lure away. And even though I have never met Sammy (as he's known), I feel like he's spoken to me through the grapes he grows.
It's too early in this wine's development to say for sure, but Ravines Wine Cellars 2008 Argetsinger Vineyard Dry Riesling ($24) may well prove to be a benchmark for dry riesling in the Finger Lakes.
The 2008 year, particularly among drier styles, led to some wines that are so acidic that they go beyond crisp or even electric and go all the way to harsh and unbalanced. This wine moves towards that boundary, but is ultimately balanced and in-your-face elegant.
The nose is explosively expressive, with fresh tarragon leading into classic aromas of bright peach, citrus and citrus blossom, and slate.
Showing the lively tension I love so much in top-flight riesling because of zesty, citrusy acidity, the palate is a bit more floral with a core of ripe peach and a sprinkling of tarragon and basil. Expertly balanced, the finish is lengthy and ends on a slate and faintly tart, pithy note.
Producer: Ravines Wine Cellars
AVA: Finger Lakes
ABV: 12.5%
Price: $24*
Rating:
(4 out of 5 | Delicious, Distinctive
)
I’m glad you reviewed this wine as I really enjoy both the Cab Franc and the Riesling by Ravines after discovering them at a NYC event a few months back. I’ve reviewed both myself. Good call.
Lenn,
I don’t recall, but was this part of the club shipment not to long ago, and if it was, I must say thank you!
I had this on New Years Eve with my gourmet pizza dishes of fennel and goat cheese and another with Duck, blue cheese and caramelized onions.
This wine was awesome! It went well with the pizza’s and everyone enjoyed this, even some who are Pinot Grigio persons, love this wine.
When the bottle was done, everyone wanted more. There was leftover pizza, but nothing from this bottle.
I would love to get some more of this and check it out in the future.
Michael, yes this was in the club in December. And I put the 2007 edition in the club as well.
If Morten keeps cranking out wines of this quality, you can expect to see the 2009 in the club as well.
We have a couple of bottles left of the 2007 Argetsinger Riesling - you liked this one too, as I recall. I hope Ravines has some of the ’08 left for the next time we head upstate!
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Evan
Ordered your book and heading up 1st weekend in dec. Emailed Ravines, hoping to get in and taste the wines sat or sun. No Argetsinger Riesling unless your in the club correct?
Also-looking at Trip Advisor I saw The Pleasant Valley Inn. Looks like an OK B&B but according to the reviews they have a killer chef. Sounds interesting.
Worth staying in the place cause of the chef? Was thinking the Black Sheep.
Thanks and looking forward to your book.
Marty
Marty - Black Sheep. ABSOLUTELY go with Black Sheep if you can.
In fact, we have a feature running on Black Sheep tomorrow. How’s that for timing?
Not sure about Argetsinger; I’m sure if you beg they’ll listen to you…
Enjoy your time - and thanks for the interest in the book.
E
I think you need to get over and see what’s cooking at The Pleasant Valley Inn:
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g47853-d671648-Reviews-Pleasant_Valley_Inn-Hammondsport_Finger_Lakes_New_York.html#REVIEWS
I smell a story there.
Really looking forward to the read and trip.