Dr. Frank's Winery

Last week I told you I would bring you up to date on some new wineries I enjoyed at the annual WINE ON ICE shindig. I will do that, but first I have to bring your attention to another accolade received by one of the great world-renowned wineries located right here in New York. That is a winery in Hammondsport on Keuka Lake. I just opened my copy of that popular wine magazine I refuse to read anymore. I went to the Buying Guide section and under "Smart Buys" I see a very familiar label. It was the label of Dr. Frank's 2002 Dry Riesling! Now, first of all, you have to know how difficult it is to get mentioned in this mag in the first place and more so if your winery is located in New York. But to be moved up from the section of "Other Wines" to get your label shown in "Smart Buys" is more even difficult than getting invited to stay in the Lincoln bedroom by you know who. The Dr. Frank's 2002 Dry Riesling was awarded 90 points on a 100-point scale, meaning an outstanding wine of superior character and style! Some noted descriptive comments were "drinks like a Mosel" and "admirable concentration." This is truly a wonderful accomplishment and something Dr. Frank's Vinifera Wine Cellars has earned. Not only should you happy tasters be aware of this but you should be proud of this fine winery right in our backyard. As it happens, there are a minuscule number of cases of the 2002 left, but the 2003 vintage will be released and available in about two weeks. I say this because - and I cannot reveal my source - the 2003 will have the same characteristics and qualities of the 2002. You will find the same mineral notes and layers of fruit that made the 2002 superb as well as the crisp acidity and long, fruity finish. Look for it soon. Now, as promised, let's talk about the new things out there. I had a nice discussion with Suzanne Kendall of HICKORY HOLLOW WINE CELLARS, another nice addition to Seneca Lake's west side. This winery just opened last August and is located about one mile north of Glenora Wine Cellars on the lake side of the road. The winery has a Chardonnay, Semi-Dry Riesling, Rosé, Cabernet Sauvignon and a Cabernet Franc available at the present time. I found the 2002 HICKORY HOLLOW CABERNET FRANC to be a pleasant dry red with a medium body and showing nice varietal fruit with a soft texture. The juice was aged for eight months in French Oak and is a Cab Franc you'll want to add to your list to try during your next visit up their way. Fairly priced at $15, it will be competitive. The good wines and the people-personality of Suzanne should go a long way. Find out hours at (607) 243-9114. A fine winemaker for several years at H. J. Wiemer Vineyards, Peter Oughterson is now proprietor of HIGHLAND CELLARS in Rock Stream, also on Seneca's west side. At present a Cuvee Blanc, Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Cayuga White and Pinot Noir are available. I tasted both the "G" wine and the Riesling and I have to give them both As. The "G" wine was very well balanced and the Riesling showed layers of flavors. I think Peter's deft touch is going to make us all very happy. I will give you more details after I visit Peter and taste his line. As you know by now, the turnout at this year's WINE ON ICE did not allow one to sit and chat. Find out hours at (607) 243-5392. There, now take this week's and last week's info. and start planning for your first spring trip to the wineries. HAPPY TASTING!! Ken Crozier is the former owner of Bottles & Corks on West Market Street, Corning. His column will appear in Food Wednesday.