Wines Niagara Escarpment (New York) Forge Cellars - Willow Dry Riesling - 2023

Viniou Reviews

Forge Cellars’ 2023 Willow Dry Riesling is a striking example of varietal expression from the Niagara Escarpment in New York. Crafted exclusively from Riesling grapes, this cuvée captures the lively essence of the region’s cool-climate terroir. The 2023 vintage benefited from a balanced growing season, allowing optimal ripeness while preserving the grape’s natural acidity. The winemaking team at Forge Cellars employs minimalist techniques, fermenting the juice in stainless steel tanks to retain purity and aromatic intensity. The result is a dry Riesling that delights with vibrant citrus, green apple, and stone fruit notes, supported by a distinct minerality and a crisp, mouthwatering finish.

The Niagara Escarpment, part of the greater AVA of New York’s East Coast, is an area renowned for its unique geological formations and proximity to both Lake Ontario and the Niagara River. The climate is distinctly influenced by lake moderation, ensuring warm days and cool nights, which are ideal for developing Riesling’s signature freshness and aromatic complexity. The soils, a mosaic of limestone, clay, and gravel, contribute finesse and minerality to the region’s wines. Though New York’s wine history is rich and diverse, it’s in recent decades that the Niagara Escarpment has truly come into its own, producing some of the country’s most elegant and food-friendly Rieslings.

A dry Riesling like this one excels with a broad array of dishes. It shines alongside fresh seafood such as oysters or scallops, as its brisk acidity accentuates briny flavors. For a regional pairing, try it with New York-style smoked trout or a simple goat cheese salad. The wine’s clarity and minerality also complement Asian-inspired cuisine, particularly sushi, miso-glazed fish, or lightly spiced Thai salads. Roasted poultry with citrus or herb seasoning further highlights its lively character.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Riesling well-chilled, ideally at 8-10°C. This temperature preserves its aromatic vibrancy and enhances the crisp, refreshing finish. Consider decanting briefly to allow delicate floral and citrus notes to unfold. Enjoy over the next three to five years for its freshest expression.