Winemaker Notes
The Dr. Konstantin Frank 2023 Semi-Dry Riesling presents itself with an elegant bouquet that is both inviting and refined. On the nose, delicate aromas of acacia flowers intermingle with hints of green apple and lime, creating a fresh and vibrant profile. The palate reveals a subtle yet distinct mineral character, enhancing the wine's complexity. Slightly sweet notes provide a balanced contrast to the lively acidity, leading to a smooth finish that lingers pleasantly. This Riesling's harmonious blend of flavors and textures makes it a delightful choice for any occasion.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
At once bright and very juicy, this has excellent depth and freshness on the medium-bodied palate. Then comes a wonderful lemon zest freshness that really lifts this in the long, straight and rather dry finish. With a bit of aeration, white currant and elder flower aromas develop.
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.