Gewurztraminer is a grape that has pink to red skin color. The word actually means “spicy grape” and it lives up to its name. It is very aromatic, high in natural sugar and used in white dry wines. Gewurztraminer pairs very well with spicy foods like Mexican, Chinese, and Thai. Give it a try with your turkey dinner at Thanksgiving!
The Pinot Noir Grape is a black-colored grape used in making red wine and as a main ingredient in many Champagnes. It is lighter-bodied compared to other red wines produced in the Finger Lakes area. Pinot Noir pairs well with pasta, chicken, tomato based sauces, beef and smoked salmon. Best of all, Pinot Noir is extremely high in resveratrol, which is thought to have antioxidant properties, making it one of the healthiest wines in the world.
The Riesling Grape is a white grape that originally came from Germany. It is quite aromatic and used to make dry, semi sweet, sweet, and sparkling wines. Rieslings are a favorite here in the Finger Lakes area. They offer a full spectrum, from dry to sweet, with a crisp fruity flavor. Riesling pairs well with fresh fruit, cheese, salads, chicken, and turkey. They are also wonderful to drink on their own.
The Chardonnay Grape is a green-skinned grape and used to make white wine. Chardonnays are usually aged in oak barrels. The aging process gives a creamy or buttery quality to the wine. It is an excellent wine to pair with grilled, sautéed, or roasted chicken dishes; as well as lobster, white fish, and pasta dishes with white sauces.
The Merlot grape is a dark blue grape with thin skins and is principally used for blending in the United States. It has also become a really nice wine to enjoy on its own due to its naturally soft texture and rich flavor. Merlot is usually on the dry side and pairs well with steak, beef dishes, and pasta with red sauces.
