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TASTING NOTES

The 2024 Amber Rkatsiteli, crafted with a month of skin contact, opens with striking aromas of toasted orange peel, macerated apricot, orchard blossoms, and a touch of spice from fresh ginger and cardamom. On the palate, zesty citrus flavors unfold with layers of stone fruit, framed by a gentle tannic grip reminiscent of a light red. Full bodied with a subtle warmth, this amber wine balances texture, spice, and freshness in a distinctive and expressive style.

VINEYARD NOTES

Rkatsiteli originates in the country of Georgia and it one of the oldest grape varieties in the world dating back to 3000 B.C. The grape has a very strong resistance to cold winter conditions and retains high acidity even in the hottest summers.

Dr. Konstantin Frank was the first to plant Rkatsiteli in the Finger Lakes during his experiments in the 1950s and 1960s. We grow just under 10 acres of Rkatsiteli on our Keuka Estate: 3.1 acres planted in 1983, 2.8 acres in 1987, and 3.8 acres in 2003. Our soils on Keuka Lake are shallow, Mardin and Volusia silt loam with high shale content which adds minerality, acidity, and elegance. Our vineyard is east-facing ranging from 980 ft to 1200 ft elevation and are at the deepest parts of Keuka Lake.

WINEMAKER NOTES

The 2024 growing season began with a historically mild winter, followed by an unseasonably warm spring, ranking among the warmest on record. This led to an early bud break, setting the stage for an accelerated growing cycle. Summer brought intense heat, with June and July among the hottest recorded, though consistent rainfall helped maintain vine health.

August delivered a welcome reprieve with cooler temperatures, allowing the grapes to develop complexity and balance. By early fall, most varieties were tracking nearly two weeks ahead of their typical ripening schedule. Fortunately, autumn provided ideal conditions—sunny, warm days paired with cool nights and low humidity—creating the perfect environment for a prolonged and meticulously timed harvest. With the rare luxury of choosing optimal picking times, we believe the 2024 wines will be nothing short of exceptional, showcasing remarkable ripeness, structure, and depth.

VARIETY

100% Rkatsiteli.

VINEYARD

100% Keuka Estate.

VINIFICATION

Destemmed. 2 Day Cold Soak. Fermented 100% on Skins. 8 Days Extended Maceration.

AGING

Aged 12 Months in 50% Neutral Barrel and 50% Clayver.

ACCOLADES