As you may remember from my recent post, I don’t write reviews based on at-winery tastings. I do use those tastings to help identify wines that I want to taste again or learn more about.
Such is the case with Domaine LeSeurre 2013 Semi Dry Cuvee Classique Riesling ($19).
My visit to the tasting room over the summer was a bit of a let down. It was too warm in the tasting room, leaving the reds well above cellar temperature. The glassware was small and weighty — the kind of glass you expect at a wine-tasting festival perhaps, but not at a winery with a growing reputation.
On that day, this wine wasn’t anything special. The nose was muted, the palate pleasant but no more. But I bought a bottle anyway. People I trust told me that I had to check these wines out.
After tasting this wine in my air-conditioned home out of proper glassware, I’m glad that I have friends I can trust.
The nose was still on the delicate side, with honeydew, fennel frond and pineapple notes. Pretty and expressive in an understated way.
A bit of green apple on the palate along with more melon. Touch of citrus pith bitterness on the finish that actually aids the structure a bit. It’s barely sweet and the acidity is well-integrated without angular edges. A little squirt of acid at the end leaves the finish mouth-watering and citrus pithy. It’s not the nervy style I tend to prefer, but it’s well done and made in a very giving style.
Producer: Domaine LeSeurre
AVA: Finger Lakes
ABV: 12%
Price: $19 (purchased at the winery)
(3 out of 5, Very good/Recommended)