On day two of our Finger Lakes winery tours we left our hotel in Geneva and drove all of 5 minutes to the Ravines tasting room.  They had just opened and were probably not expecting much traffic on such a cold and snowy day.

We thoroughly enjoyed the 2020 Dry Riesling which was showing off notes of petrol at such a young age. It was delicious and holds much potential, 92 points from me. The ever better 2020 Dry Riesling from the Argetsinger Vineyard was dry with great minerality, less petrol, very balanced and showing some phenolics on the back end- 93 points.  A 2022 Sauvignon Blanc impressed with great acidity, was fresh, balanced, crisp and worthy of 90 points.  The 2021 Gewürztraminer was a more delicate affair from a weaker vintage.  89 points for this wine that showed a transitional flavor profile from the nose to the palate.  It was very interesting and delicious.   Then again, I love this grape.

The thin 2021 Cabernet Franc is a victim of terrible weather that year. It managed 86 points. The 2019 Maximilien was integrated with nice structure. Juicy and spicy, this blend of 69% Cab Sav, 31% Merlot got 89 points from me. Drink now or till 2027.

The finale was what I came here for- sparkling wines that my friend raved about. The 2018 Sparkling Riesling was golden colored with lovely honeyed notes. It went down a treat and got 91 points from me. The last wine of our tasting was the 2017 Sparkling Brut. Made in the traditional method it was a ringer for Veuve. Delicious, crisp, loaded with all you look for in that style. Brioche, pear, lemon, creamy mouse and great acidity. I could go on but you get my drift. We really enjoyed having the tasting room all to ourselves, albeit at 10 am! Worth a visit either as your first stop of the day or at the end of your day where you can settle down to a nice cheese board and some fun bubblies before heading back to town. Salut….