In March I went to the Eastern Winery Exposition 2019. On the Tuesday night, after the Grand Tasting, I joined several industry colleagues for dinner.With me were Michael Kaiser of the American, Michael Wangbickler of Balzac Communications and Marketing, Gina Certa Shay of Cadus North America, Emi Beth Project & Marketing Director at Michigan Wine Collaborative, and David Falchek of the American Wine Society among others. I apologize if I forgot anyone.
We had a lovely dinner at A Mano in downtown Syracuse. David and Michael led the way to the restaurant.
The Lamoreaux Landing Riesling Semi-Dry 2017 was very special. Though it had a certain amount of sweetness, it had a biting acidity that more than stood up the the residual sugar. Fabulous green apple, lemon, lime, and honeysuckle along with a nice minerality made this an outstanding wine. The flavor on this wine happily lingered on the palate long after it was sipped. A very impressive offering.
Chris Stamp's Lakewood Vineyard Dry Riesling 2017 was also impressive. A blend of 100% Riesling from five different vineyards showed the complexity you might expect. Again, a large does of green apple and honeysuckle were complimented by a giant citrus bath of orange blossom, lemon rind, and dominated by fresh lime. A lovely minerality was topped by a bright, zippy ending. A balanced, complex wine, with tremendous flavor.
The food at A Mano was tremendous. From the cocktails, to the salami plate, to the main courses, and beyond it was delicious. And the atmosphere was convivial. The entire presentation finished second only to my companions. A terrific evening made all the more enjoyable by two exceptional wines from the Finger Lakes.