So in March and April I went tasting New York State wines, especially in the Finger Lakes. Owned and operated by Daniel and Olivia Budmen, Scout Vineyards has been a leader since it opened its doors in making innovative and creative wines - always experimenting. The Budmens are graduates of Hobart and William Smith Colleges who pivoted from careers in environmental law and medicine to winemaking. Their list has quickly become among my favorites. These two wines were among my favorites of the tastings I did that week.
The Scout Vineyard Kashong Glen Riesling 2024 is 100% Riesling from the Kashong Glen Vineyard owned by the Colizzi Family. The wine was fermented and made in stainless steel tanks for 12 months on lees. The candied peaches, ginger, and blue slate come through as promised. This is a rich, luxurious wine, with Granny Smith apple, tropical notes, a hint of pineapple and a note of petrol. And some wonderful acidity to keep it all fresh and refreshing. One of my new favorite Rieslings of the region!
The Scout Vineyards Kasper Chenin-Chardonnay 2025 is a limited-production, club wine from this producer. This wine is made from a 50/50 blend of Chenin Blanc, grown at the Colizzi Kasper Vineyards, and Chardonnay. The wine is stainless steel made. It explodes with tropical notes on the nose. Super aromatic. White peach, tangerine, green apple, fresh pear, lemon grass. It's light and delicate, with a lovely acidity and the ending it bright and lemony. Absolutely stupendous.
These two white wines were absolutely thrilling to taste, and immediately jump to the head of the line in the state and on the east coast. Absolutely stupendous! If you are in the Finger Lakes this summer or fall, drive there and try these two wines (as well as their Pet Nat and Gamay!)
These two wines were spectacular!