You don’t see many blends of chardonnay, riesling and traminette, but that’s what Benmarl Winery puts together to create it’s Benmarl Winery 2009 Slate Hill White ($17). The riesling (30%) and traminette (5%) aren’t overt, but no-doubt contribute subtle complexity and acidity.

Pear, apple and pineapple fruit aromas dominate the note with subtle lemon and lemon zest notes.

That pineapple character steps forward on the medium-bodied, well-balance palate, with pear and sweet lemon notes in the background. Simple and overtly fruity, it has a round mid-palate that is kept fresh with acidity, leading into a medium-length finish.

At $17, I want a bit more complexity, but it’s a definite summer sipper.

Producer: Benmarl Winery
AVA: New York
ABV: 13%
Price: $17*

(2.5 out of 5, Average-to-Very Good)

2009, benmarl winery, chardonnay, Review, white blend