Wines Niagara Escarpment (New York) Forge Cellars - Tango Oaks Dry Riesling - 2022

Viniou Reviews

Forge Cellars’ 2022 Cuvée Tango Oaks Dry Riesling from the Niagara Escarpment AVA in New York State is a compelling example of North American cool-climate winemaking. As a varietal Riesling, this wine is produced from carefully selected estate-grown grapes, harvested at optimum ripeness to highlight purity and precise aromatics. The terroir of the Tango Oaks vineyard, with its mineral-rich soils derived from centuries-old glacial deposits, imparts a vibrant acidity and notable finesse to the wine. Fermentation likely takes place in stainless steel to preserve the brilliant, fresh character of Riesling, resulting in a concentrated, dry style with expressive notes of green apple, lime, and delicate white florals. Hints of wet stone and a saline edge reveal the wine's proximity to Lake Ontario and the cooling influence of the escarpment.

The Niagara Escarpment AVA, stretching along the southern shore of Lake Ontario, boasts a unique microclimate shaped by the lake itself and the escarpment’s elevation. Cool breezes moderate summer heat, extending the growing season and allowing grapes like Riesling to develop slowly, building complexity while retaining crisp, vivid acidity. The soils are a combination of limestone, shale, and loam, delivering minerality and an elegant structure to the resulting wines. Though the region is relatively young compared to Old World counterparts, it has garnered attention for its nuanced, food-friendly white wines, with Riesling emerging as a signature variety. The winemaking community here is dedicated, innovative, and passionate about expressing the distinct qualities of each site.

A dry Riesling such as this is a marvelous companion to a range of dishes. For classic pairings, consider spicy Asian cuisine, particularly Thai green curry or lightly spiced sushi rolls—the wine’s bright acidity and subtle fruit match well with aromatic, mildly spicy plates. Closer to home, it partners beautifully with local New York seafood like grilled lake trout or oysters on the half shell. For a regional touch, try it alongside chicken with a cider and apple reduction, or with tangy goat cheese and roasted beets, which mirror the wine’s freshness and minerality.

For the best tasting experience, serve this Riesling well-chilled, around 8-10°C. Decanting is generally unnecessary, as its youthful energy and aromatic purity are best enjoyed fresh. Use narrow white wine glasses to concentrate the nose, and take a moment to let it warm slightly in the glass, allowing the subtle layers and terroir-driven minerality to express themselves fully.