Did you know it’s Riesling Month? Producers in the Finger Lakes have dedicated the month of September to the varietal; one which they are arguably among the best at the world in making.  If you haven’t had a Finger Lakes riesling, then you owe it to yourself to try one.  With soaring acidity, low-alcohol, and vibrant flavors of ripe stonefruit, apples, and honey, they’re dangerously easy to drink.

Among the largest producers, and situated beautifully overlooking Seneca lake is Wagner Vineyards, who have over 40 years experience with the varietal.  So does Wagner Vineyards Semi Dry Riesling reflect the great experience and location of it’s location?

Sight:  A pretty sort of gold, on the slightly lighter side.

Smell:  The nose is a quick fire mix of golden apples, ripe pear, lemon pith, honey, and honeysuckle.   The sweetness is present, but more polite, hiding in the floral notes and ripe fruit.

Sip:  There’s a pretty start to the mouthfeel with a well struck balance between bright and sweet.  The balance results in a slightly more moderate feel thanks to the sweetness, and the flavors shine through with punchy character, bringing in honeysuckle, fresh picked apples, honey, and touches of white peach with various other flowers.

Savor:  The ending strikes more toward the dry end of the spectrum, and has a good duration on the finish, leaving notes of flowers, golden apple, and lemon pith.  The finish shines with honey over time.

Wagner Vineyards Semi-Dry Riesling is a beautifully balanced blend of dry and sweet.  The wine crafts a pose designed to be inviting with it’s sweetness, but ends on an even keel between bright floral notes and sweet fruit.  The mix of honey flavors adds a complexity, and the overall effect works harmoniously.  For just sitting back and chilling with a glass, or as a companion to a light meal, Wagner Vineyards Semi Dry Riesling is a fantastic choice.

Verdict: Honeysuckle, Floral, Honey, Apple, Balanced
Rating: 88
Price: $12
Seneca, New York [Lodi, in the Finger Lakes]