Wines Seneca Lake (New York) Weis Vineyards - Gewurtztraminer - 2023

Viniou Reviews

Weis Vineyards’ 2023 Cuvée Gewürztraminer from Seneca Lake in the Finger Lakes region is a semi-dry white wine that showcases the varietal’s expressive personality. Gewürztraminer, known for its aromatic richness and spicy notes, thrives along the cool slopes of Seneca Lake. The 2023 vintage benefits from a balanced growing season, with cool nights preserving acidity and warm days fostering full ripeness. This wine, crafted with careful attention to temperature during fermentation to retain its floral and exotic fruit aromatics, delivers a harmonious blend of lychee, rose petal, and hints of ginger, underpinned by a subtle sweetness that’s perfectly calibrated by fresh, zesty acidity.

Seneca Lake, a sub-appellation within the larger Finger Lakes AVA, is renowned for its unique microclimate. The lake acts as a thermal moderator, reducing the risk of spring frosts and extending the growing season—perfect conditions for cool-climate varietals like Gewürztraminer. The glacially derived soils—a mix of shale, limestone, and clay—offer excellent drainage and minerality, giving wines a distinctive sense of place. The Finger Lakes region boasts a rich winemaking history dating back to the 19th century, with a recent resurgence in boutique wineries crafting expressive, high-quality whites.

With its semi-dry profile and aromatic complexity, this Gewürztraminer pairs beautifully with dishes that feature a touch of spice or sweetness. Consider it alongside Southeast Asian cuisine, especially Thai lemongrass chicken, Vietnamese spring rolls, or a mild chicken curry. Regionally, it would be delightful with roast turkey or pork paired with apple compote, and it’s a classic match with Munster or aged Gruyère cheese. The wine’s gentle sweetness will complement aromatic, savory preparations without overwhelming the palate.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Gewürztraminer well-chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. This temperature highlights its vibrant aromatics and crisp acidity. Open the bottle shortly before serving and use tulip-shaped white wine glasses to fully appreciate its bouquet. Enjoy now for its youthful exuberance, or over the next couple of years to preserve its fresh, exuberant character.