Atwater_07dryrieslingI've mentioned before that Atwater Estate Vineyards is really the winery responsible for sparking my obsession with Finger Lakes wines, particularly riesling and other aromatic whites.

I first discovered winemaker Vinny Aliperti's delicious, well-priced whites when they were being poured at Roanoke Vineyards here on the North Fork. Roanoke co-owner Richie Pisacano only had a 2000 merlot of his own to sell upon opening and, because he worked with Vinny at Wolffer Estate, offered a handful of Atwater wines in the tasting room as well.

I picked up this bottle of Atwater Estate 2007 Dry Riesling ($18) after the tasting Vinny and I co-hosted a while back and I finally got around to tasting it last weekend.

Pale yellow in the glass, this dry riesling from the warm 2007 vintage has intense Godlen Delicious apple, peach and lime juice aromas with hints of something a bit more tropical, maybe pineapple?

Fresh and fruity, the medium-bodied palate is ripe with peach, apple and lime zest, with some interesting Thai basil flavor as well. The .9% residual sugar is barely perceptible because of well-integrated, citrusy acidity. The finish is medium-short and dry, with a distinct tart citrus zest note.

This seems like a great riesling for Easter ham. I'm glad I have a couple more bottles in the cellar.

Producer: Atwater Vineyard Estate
AVA: Finger Lakes
ABV: 12%
Price:
$18
Rating: 30
(3 out of 5 | Recommended)

(Ratings Guide)