Wines Finger Lakes (New York) Treleaven - Dry Rosé - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Treleaven's 2021 Dry Rosé from the Finger Lakes AVA in New York is a refreshing and vibrant expression of cool-climate rosé production. Crafted from a blend of varietals typical to the region—often including Cabernet Franc and sometimes Pinot Noir or Lemberger—this dry rosé leans on gentle, controlled maceration to extract delicate color and structure while preserving lively acidity. The 2021 vintage, marked by a relatively warm yet balanced growing season, gives the wine a brilliant pale pink hue and expressive notes of wild strawberry, red currant, and hints of watermelon, all underpinned by zesty citrus and a subtle mineral core.

The Finger Lakes region, located in upstate New York, is a renowned cool-climate viticultural area shaped by its deep, glacially-carved lakes that moderate temperatures year-round. The soils are a mix of shale, clay, and gravel, providing excellent drainage and imparting a distinctive minerality to the wines. This climate ensures a long, slow ripening season crucial for retaining natural acidity and developing nuanced aromatics. Finger Lakes has a storied history; European varietals were introduced in the 19th century, but the reputation for high-quality, aromatic wines truly blossomed in recent decades with advances in vineyard management and winemaking techniques.

Pairing this Dry Rosé is a real pleasure due to its vivacity and freshness. It shines with summer salads, fresh goat cheese, or grilled seafood—think local New York trout or shrimp skewers. The wine also pairs beautifully with regionally inspired dishes like chicken spiedies or a farm-fresh vegetable tart. For a more adventurous pairing, serve with Vietnamese spring rolls or a citrusy ceviche, both of which echo the wine’s lively acidity and fruit profile.

For optimal enjoyment, serve Treleaven's 2021 Dry Rosé well-chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. This will enhance its bright aromas and crisp mouthfeel. Take the time to savor its freshness in a tulip-shaped glass, and enjoy it within a couple of years to appreciate its youthful charm at its peak.