This is the first of a series of three articles on the terroir of Central Otago, the most southerly wine growing region in the world, at 45 degrees South, marked by a dry, semi-continental climate. Known for pinot noir, the region has more than one grape to it—and more than
Blackberry, blueberry, and a bit of cherry rise up from the glass. Blueberry and cherry, fresh and candied, lead on the palate. More depth, with bramble and leather, come out on the mid-palate. Tannins and mouth-feel are round and opulent. Drink with duck. Recommended. 88 points. DBH WHO: Rodney Strong
Aromas of fresh-cut peaches apple blossoms, and hints of ginger are lovely. Apples, peaches and ginger also show on the palate, layered and crisp. This is a food wine - enjoy with mahi mahi. Highly Recommended. 90 points. DBH WHO: Dutton Goldfield WHAT: Riesling WHEN: 2017 DESIGNATION: Chileno Valley Vineyard
Aromas of apples and pears practically leap out of the glass. Sweet, almost syrupy ripe pears and Honeycrisp apples make up the palate. Bare hints of white pepper show the presence of Gewürztraminer, but the softness of Pinot Gris and the sweetness of Riesling dominate. Drink with chicken and biscuits. Recommended.
Lovely apple aromas flow up from the glass. The wine is off dry, with apples ranging from Granny Smith tart to Honeycrisp sweet. Honeydew melon and lime add complexity and depth. This is polished and lively. Drink with spicy twice-cooked pork. Recommended. 89 points. DBH WHO: Chateau de Riquewihr WHAT: Riesling
Aromas of fresh-cut honey crisp apples and white florals are lovely. The palate is surprisingly dry and crisp after the eboulient nose. It’s lemon and lime, acid and tautness, clean and ready to clean the palate no matter you’re eating. This is a food wine, not a sipper, so enjoy
The color is gold and copper, shining bright and clear. Honeyed pears, fresh-cut peaches, and apricot pair with huge white florals, honeysuckle and magnolia, on the nose. Unctuous sweet fruits, pears in honey, peaches in syrup, candied apricots, flow over and around the palate. On the mid-palate caramel apples shine
It's been nearly five years since Joe Roberts visited with a dozen Pennsylvania winemakers to learn about their commitment to quality dry wines, so an invite to the recent PA Sommelier Judgement Day event -- hosted at Nectar restaurant in the Philadelphia suburb of Berwyn -- seemed like a good