So there I was having a lovely set of wines with Ed
Liebowitz and Linda White, when we ran out of wine! Now, this was especially a
problem, since Linda had prepared a fantastic set, yes a set, of pork roasts.
What to do. I had brought several bottles of wine, but Ed halted my attempt at
being a good guest.
After looking through a few bottles, Ed pulled out a Shaw
Vineyards Keuka Hill Reserve 2007.
For those who don’t know Shaw (you must be living under a
rock) winemaker Steve Shaw has been a high-quality grape grower in the Finger
Lakes for 30 years, contributing to the region’s growth and emergence as a
world-class producer of vinifera wines. After learning the winemaking craft
during the 1990s, Steve Shaw founded the Shaw Vineyard label in 2002 and in
2004 built his production facility and tasting room on the western shore of
Seneca Lake near Himrod, NY.
Shaw Vineyard is dedicated to the production of vinifera
wines in a dry, cool-climate style reminiscent of the great European producers.
The winery grows most of its own grapes and sources the remainder from the
highest-quality Finger Lakes growers. Steve is a strong proponent of the theory
that the Finger Lakes possesses the soil and climate necessary to produce many
of Europe’s great wine varieties with distinction and quality.
The meal was spectacular. The meat was moist and succulent. Roasted veggies went along with it. It was perfect for the wine.
Keuka Hill Reserve is a Meritage of Merlot, Cabernet Franc
and Cabernet Sauvignon. A blend of dark berry fruit such as black berry, raspberry,
and cassis are the hallmarks of this wine. Dried herbs, and dark chocolate also
come through as promised. Hints of spices and vanilla., There is also a
smokiness. Soft acidity and sizable tannins give this wine a classic structure.
A big, beautiful wine. Sophisticated and elegant.
Congrats to the folks at Shaw Vineyards.