2023 CLASSIC GEWÜRZTRAMINER

Gewürztraminer is known for being a historically challenging varietal to grow in the Finger Lakes Region. However, those who embrace this challenge are rewarded with a wine of exceptional character and complexity.

2023 was a challenging growing season, but ultimately yielded high-quality fruit. The winter was mild, followed by an unusually warm spring, which led to early budburst. The region suffered a severe freeze in mid-May, resulting in a loss of 10%–50% of buds, which created particularly challenging conditions for Gewürztraminer, a rather delicate vinifera varietal. This reduction in yield contributed to a concentration of flavors in the grapes that were harvested. Despite the challenges, the ripening period from August to October featured warm days and cool nights, typical of the region, which allowed the remaining grapes to develop well-balanced acidity and ripe fruit characteristics. Extensive blending trials eventually focused us on one particularly delicious blend of lots.