Ravines Wine Cellars

As someone who writes about, and tastes, a lot of New York wines, there are a lot of non-vinifera wines that cross my palate. I know. I know. These sorts of wines conjure up images of sweet, foxy wines that few wine lovers enjoy. And it's true, many are awful. But, some are serviceable and a rare few are stunningly, and surprisingly, delicious. This is one such wine.

Ravine's owner and winemaker, Morten Hallgren, was raised in Provence and brings a diverse winemaking background to the Finger Lakes. He started his career in France but has also worked in Texas and North Carolina. And, he is best known in these parts for his six years as head winemaker at Dr. Konstantin Frank Vinifera Wine Cellars.

The bottle doesn't hint at the grapes inside, but this blend of 80 percent Cayuga White and 20 percent Vignoles, is unique but vaguely reminiscent of the deliciously affordable blends from Alsace. The nose is fruity and fresh with loads of melon and peach with just a little floral character and minerality. Medium-to-light bodied, those some fruits dominate the palate with slightly tropical hints as well. There is a light sweetness here, but more than enough acidity to bring balance.

Reviewed January 17, 2008 by Lenn Thompson.