Riesling Hour to Celebrate 2010 Finger Lakes Rieslings

By Evan Dawson, Managing Editor and Lenn Thompson, Executive Editor

It's not exactly Bordeaux's En Primeur, but in some small way, there are echoes of the vintage launch events that are celebrated around the world. Finger Lakes winemakers have never coordinated their efforts enough to create such an occasion. It has taken the energy of Finger Lakes Wine Country to shepherd the region, and the result is the forthcoming Riesling Hour, scheduled for next Thursday at 6 p.m.

 

Will it work? Hard to say. Unlike other regions, this event does not serve as the actual release or first tasting of the previous vintage. Many wineries have had their 2010 rieslings out and available to the public for weeks or even months. Most that participate in this event did not hold their wines for this moment.

 

And yet this event will offer a more comprehensive look at a single vintage than ever before. In bars, restaurants and private homes across the state, writers and friends and enthusiasts will taste a wide range of 2010 rieslings.

The NYCR will co-host two semi-public tastings for Riesling Hour -- one in Rochester and one in Peconic on the North Fork of Long Island.

The Rochester Riesling Hour event will begin at 6:00 at Chocolate & Vines on University Avenue. Space is already filling up, so you're asked to RSVP with Evan if you'd like to attend.

The Peconic Riesling Hour event will take place at The Winemaker Studio on Peconic Lane and also begin at 6 p.m. If you'd like to attend, please RSVP with Lenn. In honor of Riesling Hour, Anthony Nappa and Sarah Evans, proprietors of the Studio, are featuring the rieslings they pour and sell -- most made from Finger Lakes fruit -- this weekend as well. Visitors can taste five rieslings for $5 and purchase a bottle of each for $75.

We hope you're join us -- either at one of these tastings or at your own personal Riesling Hour. Let's celebrate the 2010 Finger Lakes rieslings.

Comments

[Jason Phelps]

I have no doubt this event will be viewed as a success merely because so many people will be turning their attention to the grape, the year and the region behind the event. What a great idea for a region that deserves attention!

Jason

[Tom]

I've got mine! 2010 Circle Riesling from Red Newt. My Favorite? Not sure. But I know my wife will enjoy a glass with me!