Hermann J. Wiemer, Seneca Lake (Finger Lakes, New York) Dry Riesling 2023 ($22)

The vineyards of New York’s Finger Lakes are proving to be a great source of high-quality Rieslings. The 2023 Hermann J. Wiemer Dry Riesling is a world-class Riesling at a great price. It makes a striking impression with its fruit intensity and shows the beautiful complexity and racy appeal of the world’s best Rieslings. It is drawn from three of Wiemer’s estate vineyards, HJW, Josef, and Magdalena – all on the west shore of Seneca Lake and benefiting from the moderating influence of the deep lake. The aromas of the 2023 Dry Riesling are full and forward, with scents of peach, apricot, Rainier cherry and Meyer lemon enhanced by elements of wildflowers and honey. The flavors are pure, layered, and complex with the citrus and peach fruits followed by honey and spice tones. With its juicy, ripe style, intensity of fruit and electric acidity, it is reminiscent of a dry Riesling from Germany’s Mosel or Nahe. It is an outstanding example of Finger Lakes quality.
93 Wayne Belding