Gems in My Glass . . . September 2013
Wines from the Eastern Seaboard Take Center Stage (Part 2)As promised (continuing from Part 1 posted a few weeks ago), here are additional impressive wines from the USA's Eastern Seaboard, crafted from vinifera, hybrid and native American grapes:Robibero Family Vineyard 2012 Traminette; New York State: Magnificent floral aromas greet the nose and draw you straight into the glass, wow. This deliciously fruit forward Traminette interlaces apricot, lychee and orange Muscat flavors with exotic spices, and the well-honed acidity creates the perfect balance. A skillfully crafted wine with lovely brightness and enduring length. SRP: $16.99 www.robiberofamilyvineyards.comThirsty Owl Wine Company 2012 Chardonnay; Finger Lakes, New York: The nose knows what's in this glass; a clear expression of oak-aged Chardonnay is captured in spades. Fresh Bosc pear, red delicious apple, lemon verbena and hints of spice, toast and vanilla are showcased from the aromas through the creamy textured palate to the persistent finish. Well balanced with the oak nicely integrated throughout. SRP: $12.95 www.thirstyowl.comBoordy Vineyards 2010 Landmark Reserve; Maryland: Here is a tempting blend of Merlot, Syrah, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Sauvignon that displays power and marvelous density of fruit. Deep, dark berries on the nose with concentrated cassis, blackberry, plum and herbal accents exploding vivaciously upon entry. Intensely structured with plenty of muscle wrapped around the dense fruit, and gentle oak nuances intermingle throughout. Finishes long with savory, toasty notes; a cellar worthy wine. SRP: $40 www.boordy.comStanburn Winery 2011 Meadow Breeze; Patrick County, Virginia: This 100% Vidal Blanc white hybrid offers up extraordinary aromas of fresh white flowers and sweet tropical fruit. Generously coating the mouth are palate pleasing flavors of candied pineapple and ripe stone fruit with citrus peel highlights. The acids are in balance to keep the 16% residual sugar from being cloying, and the texture is silky smooth. A sweet wine lover’s delight. SRP: $15 www.stanburnwinery.comWaltz Vineyards 2012 Sauvignon Blanc; Lancaster County, Pennsylvania: An enticing Sauvignon Blanc with a tantalizing hint of jalapeño dancing lightly among tart and sweet citrus notes upon entry. Kiwi, passion fruit and lemon meringue pie flavors burst out creating a brilliant display of tastes in the mouth. Well balanced with racy acidity that further enlivens the palate, and underlying minerality adds another dimension; beautifully crafted. SRP: $20 www.waltzvineyards.comDr. Konstantin Frank 2012 Riesling Reserve; Finger Lakes, New York: Heavenly aromas of delicate flowers, lime zest and stone fruit waft from the glass with this precisely balanced, immensely appealing Riesling. At the core an impressive structure frames yummy flavors of a fresh diced peach and apricot salsa adorned with a light touch of spice. The pleasing thread of minerality is evident from the first dazzling sip to the delicious, long lasting finish. SRP: $24.99 www.drfrankwines.comBarboursville Vineyards 2012 Sauvignon Blanc; Virginia: This highly aromatic Sauvignon Blanc fully captivates with citrus blossom and fresh herb notes delighting the senses. A subtle dusting of herbs at first sip melds with pretty layers of juicy melon, pear, lemon curd and ripe kiwi unfolding across the palate with ease. Acids are in perfect balance with the lip-smacking fruit, and the aftertaste is clean and pure. SRP: $15.99 www.barboursvillewine.comSunset Hills Vineyard 2012 Estate Vineyard #1 Chardonnay; Purcellville, Virginia: Inviting aromas of sun-ripened peaches, nectarines and fresh herbs from the garden coerce you into the glass. As soon as the wine hits your lips, juicy stone fruit, crisp green apple laced with lemon, chopped herbs and a splash of tangerine explode onto the palate. A gorgeous unoaked Chard; pure and elegant with superb freshness and vibrancy. SRP: $27 www.sunsethillsvineyard.comFall is a great time to travel the Eastern Seaboard wine regions. If the fall time does not fit your schedule, don't hesitate to brave the invigorating winter, or plan an adventure in the beautiful springtime or sunny summer months. You'll certainly discover plenty to suit your palate with the wide range of grape varieties grown here. Add to that the multitude of sparkling, white, rose and red wine options offered, from dry to semi-dry, semi-sweet to sweet and oaked to unoaked, there awaits something special here for every wine aficionado to savor!
