By Lenn Thompson, Editor-in-Chief

Thirstyowl_08riesling

Even as many Finger Lakes wineries get more attention from national publications, Thirsty Owl Wine Company continues to fly (pun intended) a bit under the radar. I'm not familiar enough with the people behind the wines to say why, though.

Still, the Cayuga Lake producer does come recommended by at least a handful of local wine lovers I respect and trust, so I was excited to be able to buy a bottle of this riesling a little while back.

Peach and dried apricot aromas lead the way on the nose with a dollop of honey and subtle hay notes, which probably means there was at least some botrytis here.

Ripe, juicy — almost candied — peach flavors are accented by lime and grapefruit zest on a off-dry palate.  The light, honeyed sweetness perceptible on the mid-palate is cut and balanced reasonably wellby a squirt of citrusy acidity.

The finish is medium length, fruity but dry. 

This wine would be a solid value at $12-13, but is still a very nice wine at $15.

Producer: Thirsty Owl Wine Company
AVA: North Finger Lakes
ABV:
11%
Price:
$15
Rating: 87

(Ratings Guide)