By Liz Miller, West End Wine Manager
When it comes to music, the East Coast sound just really does it for me. The poetic lyricism, Jazz influence, and creative record sampling used in 90s NYC hip-hop, and the artistic application of instrumentation and homemade outfits of 70s NYC punk are a direct impact of living through the grind and seedy underbelly of the city pre-gentrification. I prefer a little struggle in my artistic proclivities, and when it comes to viticulture, I look for the same in my grapes. The struggle is real (real delicious), so give me old vines or give me death!
Thanks to the Judgment of Paris, I think it’s safe to say that the world knows a thing or two about California wine - but did you know that the first American vitis vinifera (wine) grapes were actually planted 74 years earlier in Virginia by its earliest settlers in Jamestown? Much like the music of the American East Coast, the wines of the region may have been forgotten under a veil of their plastic and sunshine laden counterparts, but their historical value and influence are no doubt worth revisiting.
Nathan K. Dry Riesling (Finger Lakes, NY) 22.99
Nathan Kendall Wines was founded in 2011 by Finger Lakes native Nathan Kendall. He is an internationally trained Winemaker whose passion is to create wines in an old world style using Seneca Lake grapes and minimal intervention. Having traveled throughout the world focusing on cool climate regions and varietals, the Winemaker's focus is on Riesling, Pinot noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Franc. The fruit for this cuvée is sourced from three vineyards on Seneca Lake, with vine ages ranging from 20-40 years old. This dry Riesling has medium plus acidity with notes of Meyer lemon, tarragon, white florals, and wet stone on the palate.
Early Mountain Petit Manseng (Madison, VA) 36.99
Exceptionally layered, this dry Petit Manseng showcases a dynamic and harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Notes of grilled pineapple, ripe stone fruits, bright lemon curd, and hints of dried fruits are balanced with a subtle undertone of brioche and baking spice. With almost complete malolactic fermentation and extended lees aging, notable density supports the lively acidity. Petit Manseng embodies the essence of Early Mountain’s winemaking philosophy – a dedication to minimal intervention while embracing techniques that highlight their unique terroir.
Lightwell Survey “Dos Idiots” (Madison, VA) 32.99
Lightwell Survey is a Virginia winery shining a new light on the traditional wine-scape.“Dos Idiots” is a blend of 52% Cabernet Franc and 48% Petit Manseng and almost like older Nebbiolo with its rusty undertones. Oddly enough that translates to the nose, which is very subtle and savory. The palate is elegant and rich with ashy tannins that know just when to let go. The fruits (ripe strawberry, plum) are cooked with baking spice and pipe tobacco, and only 211 cases were produced.
Nathan K. Cabernet Franc (Finger Lakes, NY) 32.99
Back to Nathan Kendall, this Cabernet Franc from the Finger Lakes has a medium to medium plus body with balanced notes of earth (roasted red pepper, violets, smoked cedar, and fine ground black pepper) and fruit (black currant, raspberry, and dusty cherry) with a velvety tannic structure.
