Winemaker Notes
Unique to the Trentino region of NE Italy, Teroldego produces a deeply purple-hued wine with an assertive black fruit character and intriguing aromatics. The best quality Teroldego comes from the Campo Rotaliano, a sandy and gravelly plain between the tall mountains of the area. Somm Secret—Dating back to the 15th century in Rotaliano, Teroldego has created a well-connected anthology for itself. As a parent to Lagrein, a variety native to nearby Alto Adige, it is also closely related to Syrah.
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.