Zugibe Vineyards Pinot Noir 2010 (NY)

Zugibe, though relativelynew to the scene, has been a winery producing serious wines for serious wine drinkers. In June of 2005, in the Finger Lakes, on the banks of Seneca Lake, Zugibe Vineyards began as 23 acres of vinifera wine grapes. Since then, Zugibe has grown to 40 acres, comprised of 11 different varietals, including Riesling, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Merlot, Lemberger, Sauvignon Blanc and Gruner Veltliner, an Austrian varietal.

On November 20, 2006, they lost their father, Frederick II, suddenly and unexpectedly. His drive and passion for Zugibe Vineyards, and indeed, for all of his endeavors, continues to serve as an inspiration to all of his sons. The three Zugibe brothers - Frederick III, Brendan and Sean - each brought to this venture different yet complementary knowledge and experience. Frederick is a trained oenologist, Sean a viticulturist, while Brendan's background lies in business. All three, however, along with their parents, Frederick II and Anna, shared a passion for exceptional wine, and a desire to create their own unique blend.

I recently tried the wine at the Governor’s Summit for wines, beers, and spirits in Albany this past fall. The Zugibe Pinot Noir 2010 was extremely smooth. The nose had cherry, strawberry and cassis, all as promised. A hint of spice and vanilla too! The wine had a lovely bright to medium cherry, with nice acidity and relatively low tannins. It was a very nice Pinot Noir!

Congrats to all three brothers…this is a wine to be very, very proud of!!!