Posts Written OnAugust 07, 2012

Sheldrake Point Vineyards 2010 Waterfall Chardonnay

Aromas of green and golden apples, lemon zest and citrus blossom are lightly blanketed by notes of toasted oak and buttery pastry. The oak influence is dialed back on the palate, but the fruit character is a bit lacking — just a bit of apple and pear tinged with a bit of vanilla. Juicy acidity keeps the mouthfeel lively and fresh. Well made and certainly not over-oaked or unbalanced — but just not distinctive. Producer: Sheldrake Point Vineyards AVA: Finger Lakes ABV: 12.7% Price: $14*

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Martha Clara Vineyards 2010 Pinot Grigio

Martha Clara Vineyards 2010 Pinot Grigio ($20) shows off the heat of the vintage — in both good and not-so-good ways. Apple and dried pineapple aromas dominate the nose with a faint limoncello note — both the citrusy lemon character and the slight booziness. Some heat on the palate as well, with apple, peach and pineapple flavors and a short finish. Producer: Martha Clara Vineyards AVA: North Fork of Long Island ABV: 13% Price: $20*   (2 out of 5, Average)

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Silver Thread Vineyard 2011 Dry Riesling

It’s impossible to over-state the impact the cooler 2011 growing season played, but I’m enjoying what new co-owner and winemaker Paul Brock is doing with the wines at Silver Thread Vineyard. He is making fresh, clean wines that are delicious on their own but that perhaps shine brightest with food — all at good price points. In other words, exactly the types of wines I reach for every day. With bright, fresh aromas of citrus blossom, lime, grapefruit and flinty slate, Silver Thread Vineyard 2011 Dry Riesling ($16) showcases the winery’s apparent new direction quite well. Grapefruit flavor bursts on…

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