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TASTING NOTES

This 2023 Amber Rkatsiteli is a beautiful expression of the ancient varietal, highlighted by its 1 month of skin contact. On the nose, you'll find vibrant aromas of toasted orange peel, macerated peaches, and a hint of fresh ginger, immediately transporting you to a sun-soaked orchard. As the wine opens, fresh citrus zest adds an energetic lift to the aromatic profile. On the palate, the wine's rich texture stands out, a direct result of the extended skin contact, which also lends a delicate tannic grip, reminiscent of a light red. Flavors of ripe stone fruits like peach and apricot blend seamlessly with subtle ginger spice, while zesty citrus keeps the palate refreshed. The mouthfeel is lush yet balanced, offering both richness and structure, with a lingering finish that carries a touch of dried fruit and gentle spice.

VINEYARD NOTES

Rkatsiteli originates in the country of Georgia and it one of the oldest grape varieties in the world dating back to 3000 B.C. The grape has a very strong resistance to cold winter conditions and retains high acidity even in the hottest summers.

Dr. Konstantin Frank was the first to plant Rkatsiteli in the Finger Lakes during his experiments in the 1950s and 1960s. We grow just under 10 acres of Rkatsiteli on our Keuka Estate: 3.1 acres planted in 1983, 2.8 acres in 1987, and 3.8 acres in 2003. Our soils on Keuka Lake are shallow, Mardin and Volusia silt loam with high shale content which adds minerality, acidity, and elegance. Our vineyard is east-facing ranging from 980 ft to 1200 ft elevation and are at the deepest parts of Keuka Lake.

WINEMAKER NOTES

The growing season of 2023 presented many opportunities and challenges. The winter was mild, with low cold stress on the vines. This led to an uncharacteristically warm spring, causing the vines to begin budburst early. In mid-May, the entire region experienced a freeze event that only happens once in a century. The freeze caused a loss of 10%-50% of buds, depending on location and grape variety. The reduction in buds per vine led to a concentration of the resulting grapes, which were of high quality. The ripening and harvest period from August to October followed the typical pattern for the Finger Lakes region, with warm days, cool nights, and occasional rainfall.

VARIETY

100% Rkatsiteli.

VINEYARD

100% Keuka Estate.

VINIFICATION

Whole Cluster. 1 Month Ferment on Skins.

VESSEL

Open-Top.

FERMENTATION

On Skins. Twice Daily Punchdowns.

ÉLEVAGE

Aged 8 Months in 6 Acacia Oak Barrels.

ACCOLADES