Fulkerson Winery Matinee

This 2006 vintage of the Matinee grape, which was developed from interspecific hybrids named Himrod and Lakemont. Passionfrut is prevalent on the nose and in the mouth as is a distinct mint flavor. At one point in tasting, it was also just like drinking a Mojito, but as it warmed up, the passion fruit flavor became the dominating characteristic. This is considered a dessert wine by the winery, but it is balanced well enough to go with appetizers of fruit, fresh mozzarella, and a Boston Bibb lettuce salad or even a Caesar minus the fresh anchovies. VERY GOOD

Four Chimneys Reserve White

Four Chimneys claims they are America's first organic winery. Probably in modern times, but I imagine some historical wine makers might argue with them. This 2005 vintage is a blend of Chardonnay and some other unknown white varietal. It is what I would call a Chardonnay for beginners. It is very light on the palate, some acid up front, citrus, soft oak, minimal tannins and a smooth soft buttery finish that lingers longer than expected. This is very well balanced and an easy drinker, but with a subtle complexity that even the most sophisticated wine drinker will appreciate. VERY GOOD

Long Point Winery Cabernet Franc New York

This 2005 vintage Cabernet Franc has much fruit, but it is difficult to get around the tannins. Even after sitting in the glass for twenty minutes, the tannins just overpower the rest through the entire palate. The nose is reminiscent of a big juicy Syrah - a fruit bomb. I can imagine this wine being much better after 2 years in the cellar, and that tasting would probably reveal more. At about 13 bucks a bottle, and the potential this wine could have, I would cellar a couple bottles. CELLAR IT

Finger Lakes Wine Reviews

As we embark on the wine season of 2007, I'd like to remind my readers that I try to stay as positive as possible while being as candid as possible when reviewing Finger Lakes wines. You'll notice that the GOODS and VERY GOODS are plenty, and i don't intend on ever publishing a BAD review rating. If there is a BAD wine that I taste, it will not be published. Happy Tasting.

Salmon Run Coho Red

This NV red table wine is produced and bottled by the famous Dr. Frank & Sons Vinifera Wine Cellars. Not much to this wine. It is red, sweet, and there is a bit of oak. The balance is off, but it did become manageable after being open in the bottle for 48 hours. MARGINAL

Chateau Lafayette Reneau Roaring Red

This NV Vintage wine is light and easy drinking, very dark, deep purple in color, with soft oak and soft tannins. It is a bit sweet for my tastes, but as I spend more time on the Finger Lakes wine trail, many of the wine drinkers here enjoy more residual sugar than I do. For those that enjoy that sugar, I would rate this a VERY GOOD. My rating is GOOD.