Colorado presents daunting viticultural challenges. The dry climate requires irrigation. Winters can be brutally cold and hailstorms are common in the summers. Two Rivers Winery is located just west of Grand Junction, near the confluence of the Gunnison and Colorado Rivers. The area has a long history of fruit production, but wine grapes are a relatively new addition to the agricultural mix. The four thousand plus foot elevation and dry climate gives the cool nights that grapevines need for flavor development. The 2019 Two Rivers Riesling shows the potential of this vineyard area. This is a lovely and complex off-dry Riesling. The bouquet is forward and enticing with a floral component and an array of pear, apple and tropical fruit aromas. It is clean and fresh on the palate, with layers of fruit and a fine balance of sweetness and juicy acidity.
Two Rivers Winery, Mesa County, Colorado (United States) Riesling 2019
By Wayne Belding