Autumn 2019 boasted a truly spectacular run of weather. Following a nearly perfect and warm September, the crisp October that followed gave us grapes with both ripe flavours, and refreshing acidity.

Designed to be an honest representation of Finger Lakes Riesling, they worked with varied vineyard sites that have a mix of mineral soil types ideal for dry Riesling, including: shale + gravel, shale + clay, sand over shale, and limestone + shale. Each vineyard site was vinified entirely separately to best bring out individual character; from cold soaking decisions, to fermentation style, to storage in stainless steel and neutral oak barrels.

Shimmering silver-gold in colour, on the nose there are intense mineral aromas of crushed gravel, wet shale and limestone, combined with notes of green and golden apple, peach, white flower and lemon oil. An intense burst of acidity hits the palate, followed by flavours of lime, grapefruit pith and ripe orange and apricot, all leading to a lengthy, mineral-focused finish.

About EMPIRE ESTATE:

GWGP is thrilled to introduce EMPIRE ESTATE to the United Kingdom! The force behind EE is Finger Lakes native son, Thomas Pastuzak, former executive wine director of The NoMad in NYC. Thomas was named one of the Best New Sommeliers of 2012 by Wine & Spirits Magazine, Forbes' 30 Under 30 in 2013, and one of Food & Wine’s Sommeliers of the Year of 2015. He created Empire Estate to showcase the incredible Finger Lakes region of New York State. Along with renowned winemaker Kelby James Russell (Apollo's Praise, formerly Red Newt Cellars) their goal is to present Finger Lakes Riesling to the world and give everyone yet another reason to love New York. Be sure to try their Traditional Method SPARKLING RIESLINGS, too!