Ravines Wine Cellars is one of the pioneers of dry-style Riesling wines in Finger Lakes, having founded the winery in 2002. I feel comfortable stating (for my palate at least) that this 2020 Dry Riesling is a benchmark for what great Riesling can be, and from anywhere in the world. With tropical notes on the nose, the wine explodes with lemon and lime and fresh acidity that lingers on the palate. This is an outstanding Riesling, a home run in my opinion. This full-bodied creamy wine is beautifully balanced and should easily age for at least 7 to 10 years.
I know this wine deserves fine cuisine, but it’s Friday night and we’re experimenting with grilled and enchilada-style chicken quesadillas. We prepared a classic tomato-based enchilada sauce filling and a grilled chicken quesadilla with a sharp white cheese blend. The fruit and acidity in this wine easily handle both of these dishes. I also tested the wine with pickled spicy asparagus and creamy avocado both served on the side, and a basil garlic vinaigrette salad. The wine paired with everything, even the asparagus. This wine is emblematic of both dry style Rieslings and the Ravine Wine Cellars brand. Bravo Morten. You can read Morten Hallgren’s interview by clicking here.