It was the eve before Christmas
and all through the house
I couldn’t find what I wanted…
So I grabbed a bottle of Otis Kenyon 2006 Riesling and headed out the back door to sit on my carefully carved (though very humble) throne.
Such are the joys of winter.
The riesling being a cold climate grape, I felt it only appropriate to savor it in the coldest of winters I have yet to experience in Walla Walla. Apples, peaches, a slight hint of diesel. Citrus and sweetness, well balanced to the end. These things all speak of this region. Not that things in this part of the state are always in perfect balance, but the smells and tastes are familiar, surprisingly recognizable.
Rieslings do wonderfully well in Washington, and more than most varietals, they are a true testament to place. As I love to make a study of the language of place, I also love terroir. A possibly overused term, but when used with proper intent, so powerful, potent, and concise.
So this is Christmas. And as I look forward to the sparkling wines of New Year’s Eve celebrations, I now enjoy a wine that speaks volumes of place. Riesling. (Too bad Otis Kenyon only made 18 cases of this particular riesling.)
From the ice throne in Walla Walla, Happy Holidays to all. May all your merriment this season remind you of the places you hold most dear to your heart. May your palate guide you to great joy.
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
I managed to buy a couple bottles before it sold out. Thanks for the review, now I know what to (anxiously) expect!
Riesling is the grape of the 21st century. It is also a grape underdog. It’s not appreciated it and is the ultimate food wine. The grape has great flexibility, as it can be made, dry, semi dry, sweet, late harvest and ice wine. This grape grows very well in New York State and I want to bring awareness of the grape and the wonderful wines it produces.
Won’t you join me at http://www.TheNewYorkRieslingExperience.com
May 2nd & 3rd 2009 from 12-5 pm
Jonathan Hull
Winemaker
Applewood Winery
warwick, NY
So glad someone else got as much enjoyment from this wine as I did! You’ll be one of the first to know when I make another one.