By Lenn Thompson, Editor-in-Chief

Rednewt_08semiOver the weekend, we reviewed Red Newt Cellars' entree into the $12 riesling market. Today, we review their Red Newt Cellars 2008 Semi-Dry Riesling ($14) which is only a couple bucks more.

And I like it a bit better as well, and despite being labeled semi-dry I think the residual sugar (1%) and balancing acidity make this a wine that will appeal to those who prefer their riesling on the drier side.

The nose effusive and shows ripe peach and apricot primary aromas with citrus blossom, vanilla-mint and anise notes beneath.

Juicy peach and pear flavors lead the way on a fruity, fresh palate with just a little candy shell and sweet-tart lemon nuance. The finish is medium-long and ends almost dry with a crisp pear note.

Though not as focused as some Finger Lakes rieslings, this is a great value, even if "semi-dry" is even more than a little ambiguous in this case.

Producer: Red Newt Cellars
ABV: 11.4%

RS: 1%

TA: 8.7 g/l

pH: 3.00

Case Production: 233
Price:
$14*
Rating:
87

(Ratings Guide)