Flag Hill Distillery & Winery is located in Lee, New Hampshire. It is the largest vineyard in the state, and was founded in 1987, and is the oldest winery in the state. Established in 2000, Flag Hill Distillery was also the first legal distillery in New Hampshire after Prohibition. A barn dating to the late 18th century hosts the winery and tasting room. The operation is owned and run by Brian Ferguson and his wife, Maddie. I have long loved Flag Hill.
Flag Hill Sparkling Cayuga was the first of their sparkling whites. The wine is made from 100% estate grown Cayuga grapes. According to Brian, " These grapes are picked early in the morning in the fall like the rest of our white grapes. Attention is paid throughout the entire process to keep the delicate aromatics protected. After the primary is arrested early, the wine is cold stabilized and filtered. Once final adjustments have been made, the wine is sent to the Brite tank to be finished before bottling."
This wine starts off with notes of honeydew melon, fresh cut green and red apples, with notes of fresh squeezed lime, tropical fruits, and subtle floral/honeysuckle notes. The palate explodes with crisp green apple, yellow pear, with notes of grapefruit, mango, and clementine. There is a slight sweetness, but there's also a zippy acidity that keeps it all very honest and refreshing. A delightful sparkler from Flag Hill - perfect for the upcoming holidays! Terrific!