By Lenn Thompson, Editor and Publisher

Roosterhill_07gewurztGewurztraminer is the sometimes-forgotten grape of the Finger Lakes, often playing a distant second fiddle to riesling. But if you find yourself touring any of the lakes' 100+ wineries, you will find a lot of good, and sometimes great, Gewurztraminer.

Rooster Hill Vineyards 2007 Gewurztraminer ($16) shows why Gewurzt is one of the most aromatic grapes around. The nose is effusive with pineapple and apricot fruit aromas mingling with ginger, spice and white flowers.

The palate is medium-bodied with apricot, pineapple and spice flavors. The acidity is fresh, balancing the light residual sugar well. The mid-palate has a light creaminess to it, which gives way to medium-long, citrusy finish with hints of minerals.

Not a mind-blowing Gewurzt, but at $16 a good value. Rooster Hill is still a relatively new producer, but they are putting out some very good wines, wines that seem to improve with each vintage.

Producer: Rooster Hill Vineyards
AVA: Finger Lakes
ABV: 11.7%
Price: $16*
Rating:
(3 out of 5 | Recommended) 
(Ratings Guide)