Tuesday, January 13, 2015

Salmon Run 2012 Chardonnay Riesling, Finger Lakes


Salmon Run is the entry level label of Dr. Konstantin Frank Vinifera Wine Cellars. The winery is one of the very best  in the Finger Lakes and the late Konstantin Frank is a true wine pioneer who was responsible for bringing quality wine to the region.
Green Dragon purchased this bottle at Andersons. Not many Finger Lakes wines make it to local shops, so it was a nice find. At only $9.99, it is a bargain price that belies its playful taste.
The Finger Lakes produces the very best Riesling in the US, in my opinion. The minerality and perfectly tuned acidity fits our taste just right.
Some fine Chardonnay is produced in the area, but is certainly not a signature variety. However, the blend of Chard and Riesling in this bottle is spot on.The mix is 51% Chardonnay and 49% Riesling. The wine is dry, with a mere trace of sweetness (0.75% residual sugar).
The wine is fruity and rich thanks to the Chardonnay and the Riesling brings citrus flavor notes and refreshing acidity. The wine pops with freshness, something the winemaker says is due to harvesting the grapes in the early hours of the morning. The two varieties were fermented separately in steel tanks.
This is a great little wine that can age until 2016, but why wait? It’s an any occasion wine that’s low in alcohol (11.8%) so it is food friendly as well. Try it with chicken or shrimp.
Rating: 3 of 5  Value: 5 of 5

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