Should I purchase the classic yet flirty dress hanging on the rack or wear one that fits perfectly and always garners compliments? Just like getting ready for that special party is the task of finding that just-right wine…do you take a risk and try a wine that is new to you or do you choose one you’ve always loved? At the price point of $20 you won’t have to worry – you can have both! This week I’m suggesting two wines, 2013 Wagner Fathom 107 from the Finger Lakes region in New York and Castello Banfi Rosso de Montalcino 2013 from Tuscany, both sent as samples. One will satisfy your “just do it” philosophy; the other will make you deliciously comfortable. You can decide which is which…
2013 Wagner Fathom 107 (sample) – The Finger Lakes wine region in New York has made its way to the front of the line in the wine world. The buzz is all about this cool climate region and I’m more than excited to visit in August when I attend the Wine Blogger’s Conference in Corning. Recently I was sent a bottle of the 2013 Wagner Fathom 107, an elegant blend of 65% Riesling and 35% Gewurztraminer from Wagner Vineyards, one of the oldest wineries in the region and now in its fifth generation of wine growers. Located on the eastern shore of Seneca Lake, the massive volume of non-freezing water helps moderate the temperatures in the vineyards “allowing delicate grape varieties to thrive”.
Riesling and Gewurztraminer are some of the oldest vines planted at Wagner Vineyards. The 2013 Fathom 107, commemorating the winery’s 35th anniversary, showed intense floral aromas (was it forsythia?), ripe honeydew, white peaches, and luscious honey. Dry and tangy with a hint of chalk and minerality, the blend was balanced with bracing acidity and juicy fruit tastes. The snappy, bold finish lingered and caused me to wonder…what took me so long to discover wines from the Finger Lakes? Cost is $19.99.
The Castello Banfi estate can be found between the Orcia and Ombrone rivers. Single vineyards, each with its own unique terroir, comprise one third of the estate’s three thousand hectares. It is the 100% Sangiovese grapes from these estate vineyards that are found in the Rosso di Montalcino 2013. Glistening ruby red in my glass, aromas of juicy cherries were intense and purple flowers, plums, and more cherries were present on the palate leading the way to a lovely finish. Soft tannins and medium acidity were carefully braided to create balance and a wonderful food friendly characteristic that is evident in Sangiovese done right. Enjoyable and approachable, the Castello Banfi Rosso di Montalcino 2013 will complement medium aged cheeses, pizza margherita, or in my case, veal saltimbocca. Cost is $20.
Cheers~ Cindy
