Wines Finger Lakes (New York) Weis - Winzer Select Riesling A - 2024

Viniou Reviews

The Weis "Winzer Select Riesling A" 2024 hails from the renowned Finger Lakes region of New York, specifically crafted in the cooler AVA of the East Coast. This wine is a varietal Riesling, celebrated for its balanced semi-sweet, or moelleux, expression. The 2024 vintage continues the tradition of precision and purity, with grapes harvested at optimal ripeness to yield natural fruit sweetness balanced by vibrant acidity. The vinification favors stainless steel tanks, preserving the freshness and aromatics typical of the Riesling grape: notes of ripe apricot, peach, juicy pear, and a touch of citrus zest, all layered atop a delicate backbone of minerality.

Finger Lakes is distinguished in the American wine landscape for its glacially carved lakes and rolling hills, creating a unique microclimate that suits aromatic whites beautifully. The deep lakes, especially Seneca and Keuka, moderate the harsh winter cold and extend the growing season, allowing Riesling to develop complexity and retain vivid acidity. The soils, primarily shale and clay with limestone deposits, impart a signature mineral streak to the wines, linking Finger Lakes Riesling to the great traditions of Germany, while maintaining a distinct New York character. This region, with a viticultural history dating back to the early 19th century, has become a New World benchmark for Riesling.

For pairings, the semi-sweet profile of this Riesling is a versatile match for dishes that play on sweet-sour or spicy flavors. Try it with Asian cuisine, such as Thai green curry, sweet and spicy shrimp, or sushi with a hint of wasabi. It also complements classic dishes from upstate New York, like apple and pork tenderloin or a sharp cheddar tart, where the wine's fruitiness and acidity cut through richer flavors. For dessert, consider fruit tarts or apple strudel.

Serve this Riesling chilled, ideally between 8-10°C, to allow its expressive aromatics and refreshing palate to shine. Avoid serving it too cold, as it might mute its intricate flavors. Decanting is not necessary, but let the wine open in the glass for a few minutes to fully appreciate its complexity.