With the crackling energy of a white wine from northern Spain (think Txakoli), this backyard find hails from the up-and-coming Ravines Wine Cellar in New York's Finger Lakes. With 17 acres of land under vine on the eastern côtes of Keuka Lake, the Hallgren family has quickly become one of the reference points for quality wines in the area with critical praise both online and in the pages of Wine Spectator. One of our favorites is this snappy blend of Cayuga White and Vignoles. These two hybrid grapes are often found in simple sweet wines, but they really excel in this refreshingly dry white wine. Aromas and near effervescent flavors of pear, apple, and white cherry are framed by mouthwatering citrus notes and a finish that's more Granny Smith than grape. We suggest enjoying this NY charmer with spicy Thai or Korean dishes, cured meat platters, or Spanish boquerones served with a salty almond, celery, and parsley salad. 

We chatted with Ravines' winemaker Morten Hallgren, after he poured at our RiesLINsanity event. Read the interview here.