Modales Wines, Lake Michigan Shore (Michigan) Riesling 2020

 Michigan wines continue to impress.  The vineyards of southwest Michigan are among the oldest in the state, and new wineries like Modales are creating truly exceptional wines.  The Lake Michigan Shore AVA was established in 1983 and comprises some 1.3 million acres.  The area has a long history of providing Concord grapes for grape juice production.  Fine wine grapes clearly have potential here as well.  The 2020 Modales Herman Vineyard Riesling makes a striking impression with its electric acidity, fruit intensity and racy appeal.  The aromas are bright and forward, with lovely scents of peach, pear, grapefruit and Meyer lemon enhanced by nuances of wildflowers and spice.  The flavors are pure and complex with the citrus, pear and peach fruits underlain by honey and spice tones.  With its juicy style, intensity of fruit and electric acidity, it is reminiscent of a fine Riesling from Germany’s Mosel Valley.  It is an outstanding example of the quality one can find among Michigan Rieslings and it is well worth seeking out.