The Old Mission Peninsula of Michigan is nineteen miles long and just three miles wide. It bisects Grand Traverse Bay into its West and East Arms. At 45 degrees of latitude, the moderating influence of the lake is needed to allow grapes to ripen. The Brys family purchased an old cherry orchard site here in 2000 and have successfully created a fine wine estate. The 2023 Brys Estate Riesling Reserve 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 lemon enhanced by nuances of wildflowers and spice. The flavors are pure and complex with the pear, peach and citrus fruits supported by honey and spice tones. With its juicy style, intensity of fruit and perfect tension between sugar and 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.
91 Wayne Belding
Brys Estate, Old Mission Peninsula (Michigan) Riesling Reserve 2023
By Wayne Belding