Sips and Slurps (December 1)

Here are a couple news items from the past week or so:

• There's an interesting guest editorial in the Troy Record about the New York State Liquor Authority and how long delays in licensing approvals are hurting new businesses. I know several people who are playing this waiting game right now, and it's beyond frustrating. Some of them have lost a lot of money as they wait and wait. Apparently, it's much easier to get through the Federal licensing process.
• Arrowhead Spring Vineyards, up in the Niagara Escarpment, just received an 86-point score from the Wine Spectator (actually James Molesworth) for it's 2006 Chardonnay. Personally, I thought it was over-oaked, but owner/winemaker Duncan Ross is someone worth watching in that region.

Comments

[Bryan]

While I usually avoid oaked chardonnays like the plague, I found Arrowheads to be balanced and worthy of praise for such a young winery.

I've actually got two in my cellar at the moment and I've sent a couple off to friends to show off what's being made up here these days.

I think your getting spoiled by all those good naked chards down there! lol, cheers

[LENNDEVOURS]

Bryan: Maybe I am, but I think less oak is better with NY-grown chardonnay. Do you know if Duncan has any plans to make a naked chard?

That's not to say that some NY barrel-ferm chards aren't terrific, because there are several from every region.

[Bryan]

I don't believe he does have any plans for a naked one. Eveningside Winery both in 2006. Freedom Run Winery is doing a naked one for 2008. Chateau Niagara (from FL/Niagara blend grapes) is also trying an unoaked version this year as well.

With the expense of french oak I would assume there would be more naked chards around these days.