With more than 200 brands hailing from the region, Riesling has put the Finger Lakes wine country on the serious oenophile’s map. To return the favor, the Finger Lakes Wine Alliance has proclaimed September Riesling Month to shine the spotlight on its star varietal.
A month-long series of more than 40 events celebrating the exceptional range of Rieslings produced by Finger Lakes Wine Alliance member wineries will span New York State, including the following three New York City tastings:
Monday, September 26
Riesling and Fried Chicken at Nightingale Nine (invitation only), 6:30–9 p.m.
Tuesday, September 27
Murray’s Cheese and FLX Riesling Pairing at Murray’s Cheese Bar, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, September 28
Brooklyn Wine Exchange and Finger Lakes Riesling Event at Brooklyn Wine Exchange, 7–8 p.m.
The cool climate and shale-rich terroir of the Finger Lakes is ideal for cultivating the Riesling grape. Allowed to develop slowly, it produces a complex, aromatic and balanced wine. As many as 950 acres in the region are devoted to Riesling, with most producers making two or three styles, for a total of 230,000 cases.
Fifteen of these producers will showcase their wines during Riesling Month. They include Bellangelo, Boundary Breaks Vineyard, Chateau LaFayette Reneau, Dr. Konstantin Frank Wine Cellars, Fox Run Vineyards, Glenora Wine Cellars, Heron Hill Winery, Knapp Winery & Vineyard Restaurant, Lakewood Vineyards, McGregor Vineyard, Sheldrake Point, Swedish Hill Winery, Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Three Brothers Wineries & Estates, and Wagner Vineyards. In addition, more than 60 retailers and more than 40 restaurants have signed on to participate.
For the full calendar of events, which continues to grow, visit the Riesling Month website. Attendance is limited. For an invitation to any of the New York City tastings, contact Jackie Dugas via email.
- Photo of wine glass: PicJumbo/Viktor Hanacek
- Photo of grapes: Barn Images
