Finger Lakes News Flakes

-- We opened a bottle of Torrey Ridge Delaware this week and I remembered why we had purchased it. In my experience, most wines made from the native Delaware grape are too grapey for my taste. But this white wine moderates that grapiness and sweetness with a crisp acidity that really makes a good and balanced wine. So, if you are a fan of native grape varieties, I'd recommend the Torrey Ridge Delaware. I tried to access the Torrey Ridge website, but it is under construction. Hopefully, they'll have a great new website soon. If you are visiting wineries on Seneca Lake, make sure to visit Torrey Ridge, with one of the newest and grandest tasting rooms in the Finger Lakes. And don't forget to walk around the corner to Earle Estates Meadery for a unique wine tasting experience of mead, or honey wine.

-- I came across this Vintage Chart from Wine Enthusiast magazine that shows their vintage ratings for Finger Lakes wine. They rate the 2001 vintage for both reds and whites as the best in the 12 years of ratings listed.

-- I have not read it yet, but the February issue of the new wine magazine for women, Wine Adventure Magazine, has an article on Touring & Tasting in the Finger Lakes( subscription required).

-- If you are looking for something fun to do this weekend, check out the Beat The Blues weekend at Dr. Frank's, Heron Hill, and Hunt Country wineries on the west side of Keuka Lake. Beat the winter blahs with live Blues music and great wine.

-- The battle for direct shipping continues. Tom at Fermentations and Free The Grapes are keeping the pressure on for states to allow direct shipping of wine, to benefit consumers and the small family-owned wineries.

-- Here is an excellent article on the way that acidity acts in wine and on our palates.

-- If you are planning a trip to the Finger Lakes, check out Finger Lakes Wine Adventures for a customized wine tour.