Chateau Lafayette Reneau Semidry Riesling 2011

New York State is renowned for excellent Riesling. Chateau Lafayette Reneau is a prime example of an outstanding New York State producer and their Riesling is a star. Bright acidity sparkles on the nose and continues on the palate. Smooth fruity flavors fill the mouth. Finishes clean. Pair with ceviche summer fruit or pork with fruit sauces.

Summer in New York is finally here. The bright daylight, refreshing breeze, magnificent scenery mdash; architectural and natural splendor galore are no longer covered in snow. I offer you a wine parallel, no talks finish and frills, though itrsquo;s got some stone fruits and a tang of citrus. We are talking about fun and elegance in a glass, also bright, also refreshing, and structure to boot. This glass is waiting for a fish dinner or fry, for a day on the lake, after work or in the yard with friends and family, representing oh-so-well the ground we walk on. I love NY.

Generous, with a flattering off-dry edge to the anise, apple and kiwifruit flavors. Therersquo;s nice richness and length on the finish. Very solid. Drink now through 2010. Tasted twice, with consistent notes.

2006 is a classic year for Riesling in the Finger Lakes and I could not wait to try this yearrsquo;s Riesling from Chateau Lafayette Reneau. This vineyard on the southeast shore of Seneca Lake has won the Governorrsquo;s Cup multiple times, and this wine just took a Double Gold and was named ldquo;Best International White Winerdquo; at the prestigious Riverside International Wine Competition. Very clean and full citrus nose of grapefruit with vibrant acidity and a full array of stone fruit (very peachy) and citrus in the mouth leading so a long finish. This wine is perfect alone but will pair fantastically with a wide variety of food.

Oh, the tongue-tingling acidity, and how it plays nicely with the refreshing honeyed, sweetness of this Riesling! This is an easy answer to the ldquo;What should we drink tonight?rdquo; question. The citrus-like acidity balances its fresh tangerine, apple and honeysuckle fruit. The finish is a peachy-pear montage which will keep you lifting your glass for more.

A sweet but spicy nose of honeysuckle and pear, and a flavor profile of tropical fruit and honey, make this Riesling an attractive wine to pair with food or enjoy on its own. Therersquo;s sweetness but itrsquo;s well-balanced with a minerality and acid that gives it lift. Good weight but a pretty touch.

Showing gorgeously, with honeysuckle, spring flower, clove and holiday spice tones. There's well-defined acidity and a lingering apple cider note. Try with cod in a miso sauce.