2007

2008 RIESLING

Firesteed Wines

As vintners, we embrace the return to a focus on the expression of fruit, spice and earth characteristics inherent in great dry Riesling. In 2008 the fruit ripened slowly in the cooler temperatures of that summer and fall, and by mid-October the grapes achieved an amazing level of complexity and concentration of flavor without overblown sugar ripeness. Vineyards in both the Willamette and Rogue valleys were harvested October 18th - 31st and with each passing day it became apparent that 2008 might be Firesteed's finest white wine vintage to date.

Brimming with the same intense Riesling character of the grapes at harvest, the wine is overflowing with aromas of mandarin orange, honeysuckle, lemon zest and melon. Each sip is light and refreshing with increasing weight and texture that is quickly balanced by the wine's focused, vibrant acidity and modest alcohol. With time, like eyes adjusting to a dark night sky, the wine's elusive mineral quality slowly reveals itself and the potential for added complexity over time.

WINE ANALYSIS
TA 9.00 g/l
pH 3.46
Alcohol 10.4% Residual Sugar 1.3%

2007 RIESLING

As vintners, we embrace the return to a focus on the expression of fruit, spice and earth characteristics inherent in great dry Riesling. With our 2007 vintage, the growing season began as an early spring and brought very successful flowering and fruit-set. Summer temperatures were slightly cooler than usual followed by a few showers in September to settle the dust. By the beginning of October, nerves of steel and a positive attitude were required to chart a path to ripeness through uncertain weather forecasts. The reward for our patience came in the form of exceptional quality grapes and the introduction of our first Oregon Dry Riesling into the Firesteed family of wines.

Initially taken in by the white peach and subtle lime aromas, we are delighted to also find the flinty, mineral, almost masculine thread running through this grand white wine. Crisp, bright acidity perfectly balance the hint of rich honey. The combination of intense citrus fruits and sweet spices mingle beautifully, taking the sensory experience to an explosive level that keeps on giving with the delicious, lengthy finish. This Riesling was born to be paired with an array of delectable foods. From simple to elaborate starters, candied nuts and cheeses, to grilled and roasted poultry, fish, pork and flavorful pasta dishes, the imagination is the only limit to the possibilities.

WINE ANALYSIS
TA 8.86 g/l
pH 3.08
Alcohol 10.5% Residual Sugar 1.5%