Fulkerson Winery Matinee 2005

Since having the 2006 Matinee, I stumbled upon a wine shop that still had the 2005 vintage. Either father time made its toll, or 2006 is just that much better. This wine would stand okay on its own, but comparing it to the 2006, I need to say it lacks depth and balance. This is a sweet wine with much citrus and passion fruit, and the finish lingers like a rich syrup. It opened up a bit after a couple days, so if I had another bottle, I would try decanting it, but the best thing to do would be to let it swirl in your glass for about 15 minutes. MARGINAL

Fulkerson Reserve Red

This is a light and airy red 2004 vintage of 100% NY 70.0809.10. Don't ask what this number means, but that is the name of the grape. 7 months in 2/3 French Oak and 1/3 American Oak. Not many in the Finger Lakes use French Oak, so this alone is a nice treat, especially at nine bucks a bottle. Fruity without any residual sugar and the Oak and gentle tannins offer a wonderful balance at a great value. The winemaker notes indicate blackberry fruit, but I don't taste it. This wine goes great with a Grist Mill Cafe chocolate cookie.