Wine Pick of the Week: December 10, 2015

Dr. Konstantin Frank Chateau Frank Celebre Riesling Cremant NV  (NY)

If you drink wine and live in New York state, Dr. Konstantin Frank is a fixture, an institution, a standard in the wine industry, especially when it comes to Rieslings. Consistently winning gold medals for the last two decades in competitions throughout the world, Dr. Frank’s wines are what got the international and US aficionados to take a closer look at the Finger Lakes. That said, I saw this on the shelf and had to try it.

The nose is definitely honey with a touch of fruit—apple or a bit of citrus. Pale color with lots of long-lasting bubbles. By the way, this is made in the traditional Methode Champenoise with 100 percent Finger Lakes Riesling grapes.

The tasting begins with fruit—apples, actually—a little tart at first and not really sweet Riesling. Flavors transition to honey with the slightest hint of vanilla. It’s crisp, then silky. The finish is off-dry with just a waft of fall spice possibly.

This is a crowd pleaser for holiday parties, and the $20 price isn’t outrageous for the smooth flavors and unique take on this traditional grape. I will be adding a few more bottles to my frig.