Given its northern European ancestry, Riesling tends to thrive in cool climates, although it also makes superb wine in warmer climes such as Australia, eastern Washington State and here in Santa Ynez Valley. In 2009, Gainey experienced the best of both climatic worlds: a cool spring and early summer with sufficient heat in August and September to ripen our Home Ranch Riesling fruit to perfection.
Our 2009 Limited Selection Riesling offers classic varietal aromas of honeysuckle and jasmine coupled with ripe golden apple, apricot and nectarine fruit scents. On the lush, yet finely structured, palate, the wine's succulent honeyed peach, apricot and floral spice flavors are buoyed by refreshing citrus and mineral undertones, leading to a fruitful, yet decidedly dry, mouthwatering, finish. Delicious on its own, this rich, round Riesling is also a marvelously versatile food wine that's heaven with peach or citrus-glazed chicken, pork chops, country ham and spicy sausage. Enjoy over the next 1-2 years.
July 2010