Posts Written OnJuly 20, 2006

As I said earlier this week, Roanoke Vineyards is, first and foremost, a red wine winery. Cabernet sauvignon and other Bordeaux varieties rule, but this spring, they released their first white wine — a $17 chardonnay — in response to tasting room demand. 60% barrel fermentation brings freshness while 40% fermentation in barrel brings depth and a softness. Refreshing apple and Asian pear aromas lead to a well balance palate that blends apple and melon flavors with richer, more tropical notes. Nice acidity brings balance to this wine and makes it perfect for summer drinking. This is a style that…

This weekend on Hamptons.com my Corks of the Forks column focuses on Waters Crest Winery and winemaker Jim Waters’ 2005 releases. Jim is one of the friendliest, most charming people on Long Island’s East End and his riesling is usually one of my favorites. As you’ll see, the riesling seemed a bit off when I tasted it (two bottles) but it’s possible that it was still a little bottle shocked. I’ll definitely taste it again this fall — probably at Thanksgiving because I like it with Turkey. Read Corks of the Forks for more information.