 Justin Boyette, harvesting Pinot Noir grapes September is here and in New Jersey (the current world HQ of Amie’s Winehouse) the leaves are only just beginning to turn with the shortening of the days. In the Finger Lakes, however, about 4 hours north, the leaves are resplendent with color and harvest is in full swing. This is the ‘manic’ season for most wineries and winemakers. Grapes are being picked, presses are working overtime, new releases are being bottled. In small wineries across the country, every staff person is on deck and is wearing multiple hats, sorting grapes, affixing labels, packing shipments, working the tasting rooms. This is a far cry from the lazy dog-days of August, when I was last up in FLX. We had stopped into one of my favorite restaurants, the Stonecat Cafe for a late lunch and grabbed seats at the bar. As we ate, we found ourselves joining a wine related conversation with Joshua Carlsen, Stonecat’s Wine Director, who was tending the bar, and a soft-spoken gentleman sitting to my right. Josh was pouring tastes of a new imported Sicilian wine he had sourced for the restaurant for us and made introductions. The gentleman was Justin Boyette, the Co-owner and winemaker of Hector Wine Company, and Forge Cellars. Justin invited us to stop in and visit with him at the winery to taste some of the wines he and his teams were producing. As it turns out, the day we dropped in at Hector Wine Company and asked for Justin, he had just left to man a tasting event down towards Watkins Glen. Instead, we met with Alexandra Doniger, an enthusiastic young assistant winemaker to Justin, and the Director of Marketing at Hector Wine Company. As we began our tasting, Alexandra excused herself to take a call from a colleague working at a tasting room just up the road. Apparently an intoxicated young woman had come in to their winery with what appeared to be her sober boyfriend, but they had denied the couple a tasting. They were calling to give the Hector staff a heads up as they were fairly certain that the couple were heading towards Hector’s tasting room. “She’s got a blue striped dress and is slurring her words, you won’t miss her.” Five minutes later the couple rolled in. The young woman was practically draped over her boyfriend's shoulder, lids heavy. Alexandra approached the couple and explained that they had received a call from the previous winery and that they would also not serve them. With grace and finesse, Alexandra suggested that they consider calling it a day. What followed was an interesting and animated discussion about tasting room protocol and etiquette. “Tasting rooms look out for each other - we do communicate and share information, especially about problematic patrons, and obvious intoxication. It really doesn’t matter that she had a designated driver. We want people to enjoy themselves, to taste and to learn, but we take ‘poor behavior’ pretty seriously. Yes, it is awkward to deny a visitor a tasting, and it doesn’t happen often, but sometimes we have to say no. Not only is it for the health and safety of the patron and everyone around her, it also reflects on our tasting room, all of the wineries around here, and on the Finger Lakes as a wine making region.” Well done, Alexandra. A mental note: among the all different ‘hats’ staff have to wear in small wineries, add ‘occasional bouncer’ to the list. It occurs to me that there might be a book, or at least an article with fun and interesting stories from ‘behind the wine tasting counter.’ The people the staff have met, and the crazy things that happen, a sort of tasting room staff "tell-all" piece. But I digress. We tasted several delicious and well-crafted wines produced by Justin and his team, both Hector Wine Company wines as well as wines from Forge Cellars, Justin's more recent winemaking venture and partnership with friends, Louis Barruol, and Richard Rainey.  The standout tasting for me that day at Hector's tasting room was Forge Cellars' Les Allies 2012 Pinot Noir. Though I tasted it in mid summer, I knew immediately that I would want to drink it on a cool fall evening as the leaves are turning. This is a lovely 100% Pinot Noir with ripe red fruit (cherry and strawberry) on the nose with red fruit and some exotic Asian five spice notes on the palette, giving it depth and intensity. There is bright acidity that balances the fruit and spice. It would make a wonderful wine with braised or roasted pork with stewed fruit – apples, cherries. It would also pair well with a roast turkey, particularly the rich dark meat. I think this wine has aging potential; there is really just great 'substance' in this 2012 vintage. It has got that wow factor. Laying it down will help develop secondary savory notes and the add to the complexity and allure of this wine. That is, if I can actually wait that long. And here’s the thing; tonight is a perfect cool autumn evening. So, I think that at least one bottle of Forge Cellars’ Les Allies 2012 Pinot Noir is not going to see any more cellar time tonight. If you want to get a picture of the outstanding winemaking that is taking place in the Finger Lakes, this short video captures it perfectly. The Forge Cellars owners share their passion for their craft, and their commitment to making wine that expresses the amazing potential of this “unique, cool-climate region."
65 Comments
Eman
9/20/2014 01:53:32 pm
Thanks to Amie's Winehouse for enlightenment and solidifying the exodus from west coast "wine" country to the "beast" of the east! 11/13/2016 10:16:18 pm
List of document for address proof, list Of documents for proof of relationship and other problem related to aadhar card. you can find all information here. 3/12/2017 08:19:01 am
We were taught how to make wine in grade school. I didn't know it was a completely different process from outside. The best wines came from places where it took them generations to perfect and improve their craft. I am also amazed how critics were able to differentiate each. For me they are almost the same. Maybe I haven't really tried the real good ones. 6/22/2017 08:06:45 pm
Enduro Rush other than that just take as an awful lot as you feel like is ideal and there is Enduro Rush no trouble.so in end it does paintings you simply need to take it greater. Enduro Rush in case you are clearly a bushy beast who loves to brake human beings in half of on a terrific day Enduro Rush you probable do not need it. 12/18/2015 11:08:49 pm
What a fantastic publish! Other than the seriously helpful ideas, it really is just really ! Thanks a great deal in your strategies!!
XCell 180 in this article i can describe the way to rid guy boobs immediately the use XCell 180 of my clean pointers.there are some alternatives to be had to deal with man boobs. XCell 180 one of the really popular strategies to rid man boobs is with the aid of the use of surgical procedure. 2/9/2016 03:59:37 am
It's nice blog I have really enjoyed keeping up with you on this blog.This is very useful post for everyone. Thank you so much this post. Irvine Pediatrics, located in Irvine, CA, opens its doors to you and your family. Our primary focus is immunizations, newborn care & dietary guidelines. 2/16/2016 08:09:44 pm
BBB's Business Review for Glide - In Overhead Door Company, Business Reviews and Ratings for Glide - In Overhead Door Company in Los Gatos, CA. 5/23/2016 11:43:07 pm
Great blog post, however only a few of the points were actually treated really good,I definitely enjoyed what you had to say. 6/3/2016 08:27:20 pm
The taste of the Hector Wine Company is great as they have some great variety of wine which really have a nice taste. Hope to visit their winery soon for tasting new wines. 6/4/2016 06:00:03 am
I think the taste of your wine company will be more tasty then the others, therefore mostly people attract to purchase your wine. Now, it is easy to maintain their physical fitness with the help our reliable online store that provide supplement at very discounted price. 6/30/2016 10:17:32 pm
When we surf the internet, we can have as lots of details promptly. Yet your own is the best one. 8/1/2016 02:07:43 am
Now I come to know that they are able to give such good taste to their vines. They are sure to sell this vine at expensive price because they really make good effort to make these vines. 8/3/2016 03:26:45 am
I would like to thank you for this excellent post! 1/8/2017 10:37:55 am
Hello amazing content and website. Thanks for this service. My website about relationship and pull your ex back. 1/8/2017 04:28:32 pm
Credits can be an error if not thoroughly considered and worked out with an advance counsel or a representative. Different states have diverse loan costs that are pertinent. A few Web destinations additionally have a lot of data on different land credits accessible to clients. 2/2/2017 07:36:58 pm
Owning a house is an imperative thing in life. It is a since quite a while ago treasured dream for some. Nowadays, there is an incredible increment in the property costs in India. Thus purchasing a house in a solitary installment is troublesome for some individuals. 4/21/2017 05:27:08 pm
This blog is really helpful regarding all educational knowledge I earned. It covered a great area of subject which can assist a lot of needy people. Everything mentioned here is clear and very useful. 5/24/2017 11:04:01 pm
Easily, the article is actually the best topic on this registry related issue. I fit in with your conclusions and will eagerly look forward to your next updates. Just saying thanks will not just be sufficient, for the fantasti c lucidity in your writing. I will instantly grab your rss feed to stay informed of any updates. 5/28/2017 08:33:05 am
Web design services are the ultimate solution for advertising on the internet. A web site is the perfect way to attract users who are beyond the geographical boundary. 8/8/2017 07:13:10 pm
Thanks for sharing helpful information, I really like your all post. I will bookmark your blog for future updates. 8/8/2017 07:13:26 pm
This site is excellent and so is how the subject matter was explained. I also like some of the comments too. Waiting for the next post. 9/15/2017 04:00:05 am
Good news for You who need SEO services, please check in our address. 9/20/2017 07:21:43 pm
This site is excellent and so is how the subject matter was explained. I also like some of the comments too. Waiting for the next post. 9/25/2017 08:02:04 am
I really enjoyed this site. This is such a Great resource that you are providing and you give it away for free. It gives in depth information. Thanks for this valuable information. 9/25/2017 09:41:20 am
Nice post having excellent contents.This is exactly what I've been looking for.Thank you very good. 9/25/2017 10:41:52 am
Excellent posts to read keep it up and keep going on this way. And keep sharing these types of things Thanks 10/5/2017 02:26:56 am
If you need to know How To Lose Weight Very Quickly then make sure you read these 3 essential steps to to lose weight very quickly without starvation, bland diets or hard workouts! If you need to know how to lose weight quickly then this article will be your saviour. 10/10/2017 07:41:05 pm
I really enjoyed this site. This is such a Great resource which you're providing and you also give it away for free. It provides in depth information. Thank you for this valuable info. 11/2/2017 12:27:46 pm
If the application for registration of this mark, filed an objection, then the Directorate General of IPR will use the objection as a consideration to re-examine the applicant 12/22/2017 07:26:58 pm
Beauti Queen amazing kolkata escorts agency alwyas ready for you at your doorstep. Beauti Queen provide you high profile independent girl in kolkata, escorts service in kolkata, kolkata escorts. If you are looking for the ultimate encounter in Kolkata then I am your sophisticated young Kolkata escorts that provides upscale companionship for making your night becomes true. 12/29/2017 06:47:21 am
Renu Das Kolkata Escorts Services has gorgeous females provides Independent Escorts Service in Kolkata call girls at 100% satisfaction with VIP models. Provided Kolkata escorts at our agency are professional in nature and are eager to serve you at your place. 12/30/2017 08:32:07 am
Jiya Roy is a high class luxury and premium independent escorts agency in Gurgaon offering sexy independent escort Girls, models and cheap rate call girls for incalls and outcalls and travel arrangements. 1/5/2018 07:25:29 pm
Gurgaonfemales.in offers highly educated model from Gurgaon and best Escorts service in Gurgaon through some of its sizzling Independent escorts in Gurgaon Call Girls who are available to customers 24*7. 1/17/2018 06:09:31 am
Riya Chaudhary is an Independent Delhi Escort girl, who offers dazzling hot Delhi Escorts Service, incall or outcall services both to complete your dreams in real entertainment. We offers high class Independent Escorts in Delhi at Riya Chaudhary Delhi Escorts service agency for elite peoples in the city to avail ultimate satisfaction. you can spend your beautiful moments. 1/18/2018 12:03:44 am
This site is astounding as is the means by which the topic was clarified. I additionally like a portion of the remarks as well. Sitting tight for the following post. 1/19/2018 10:11:19 pm
I am Riya Chaudhary, Riya Chaudhary is an Independent Delhi Escort girl. We offers high class Independent escorts in Delhi at Riya Chaudhary Delhi escorts service agency for elite peoples in the city to available ultimate satisfaction. 1/26/2018 08:02:55 pm
Hi i am Jenisha Pandey high profile independent collage girl in Gurgaon. we are provide escorts service in gurgaon, gurgaon escorts, escorts in Gurgaon if you are captivating for an independent escorts Call Girls visit www.jenishapandey.com for your naughty desire I am always available 24x7 for your all sexual desire. 1/27/2018 11:36:38 pm
High prifile escorts services in gurgaon, VIP escorts services privide in gurgaon escoerts and gurugram escorts. 2/7/2018 05:44:29 pm
Forever’s clean 9 products are designed to provide your body with the fuel it needs to reach its full potential. 3/4/2018 07:15:29 pm
Great fact that all you have been elaborate such an amazing stuff.I highly appreciate you for all this aspects,you did an amazing job admin.Thanks admin 3/4/2018 10:40:36 pm
Thumbs up with hector wine company that they have been done an amazing job by providing such a great stuff,keep sharing more about the relevant task thanks 3/19/2018 10:23:24 pm
Skateboard sizes and skateboards are a challenge for beginner skaters and you should understand what size of skateboard will fit you including decks, trucks, bearings and bushings. 4/24/2018 08:26:37 pm
Our Mussoorie escort services provide a unique kind of simplicity, something you will not find in any other agency. We have been in this business for quite some years. 5/10/2018 11:54:10 am
have to there be another persuasive publish you could share next time, I’ll be absolutely looking forward to it. 5/19/2018 08:48:46 am
his is my first time i visit here. i discovered such a lot of interesting stuff on your blog, mainly its dialogue. From the tons of remarks to your articles, I guess i'm now not the only one having all the amusement right here! preserve up the awesome paintings. 6/3/2018 05:15:38 pm
I got here onto your blog even as focusing just barely submits. fine method for subsequent, I may be bookmarking right away capture your whole rises 6/3/2018 09:04:09 pm
Set of record for speech evidence, checklist Of records for confirmation relationship along with also different problem associated with aadhar card. You may locate all advice . 6/13/2018 01:51:04 pm
thank you for writing the sort of proper article, I stumbled onto your weblog and examine some post. i love your style of writing... 8/19/2018 11:47:41 pm
may also need to be repaired from time to time which could be much less expensive than installing brand new locks. 9/21/2018 06:00:22 am
For many e-commerce businesses, content marketing means blogging.
http://juhuescorts.biz
http://ansu.co.in
aliya
4/14/2020 02:25:04 am
http://ansu.co.in Leave a Reply. |
AuthorAmie Herman is a sometimes writer, a deep thinker, an enthusiastic explorer, and an artful sipper... Archives
November 2020
Categories |
RSS Feed