Winemaker Notes
The 2024 Dry Riesling is a true reflection of its vintage. This wine is the culmination of meticulous blending from a mosaic of vineyard sites across our estate, capturing the essence of the growing season in every glass. Profoundly aromatic, the nose bursts with vibrant layers of fresh lime, stone fruits, and ripe melon, accented by hints of white flowers and citrus zest. On the palate, it delivers a dynamic interplay of apricot, nectarine, and a distinct stoniness, supported by a backbone of bright, mouthwatering acidity.
Despite its brisk freshness, the wine offers a rich texture and a lingering, elegant finish. The 2024 Dry Riesling is both structured and expressive, showcasing the pedigree of site, precision in winemaking, and the timeless character that defines Dr. Konstantin Frank’s legacy.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
The vibrant white currant, blackcurrant and white peach aromas pull you into this sleek and pristine, barely medium-bodied dry riesling. Very pure and clean in the long, zesty and stony finish.
Riesling possesses a remarkable ability to reflect the character of wherever it is grown while still maintaining its identity. A regal variety of incredible purity and precision, this versatile grape can be just as enjoyable dry or sweet, young or old, still or sparkling and can age longer than nearly any other white variety. Somm Secret—Given how difficult it is to discern the level of sweetness in a Riesling from the label, here are some clues to find the dry ones. First, look for the world “trocken.” (“Halbtrocken” or “feinherb” mean off-dry.) Also a higher abv usually indicates a drier Riesling.
As the most historic wine-producing region in New York state, winemaking in the Finger Lakes area dates back to the 1820s and today as a region, accounts for 90% of the state’s total wine production.
Its narrow and deep lakes created by the movement of Ice Age glaciers create an environment similar to the classic Riesling-loving regions of Europe, namely Germany and Austria. The Finger Lakes retain summer heat that incidentally warms up cold winter air, making it fall down from the lakes’ steep slopes. When spring comes, the lakes, already cooled by cold winter weather, stave off vine budding until the danger of frost has subsided. The main lakes of the zone, that is those big enough to moderate the climate in this way, are the focal points of prime vineyard areas. They include Canandaigua, Keuka, Seneca and Cayuga.
While Riesling has fueled most of the region’s success, today Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc enjoy some attention.