Riesling
This wine hardly needs an introduction in the Finger Lakes where it is universally considered the region’s best grape. One of the main differences at Shaw is the role of aging, which has been a component of the Riesling program since day one. Aging Riesling is extremely common in Europe and can bring out the depth and complexity of one of the world’s most versatile grapes.
Riesling (Road Block Reserve)
Year after year, Steve Shaw noticed that the block of Riesling closest to Route 14 tended to get botrytis. When you can’t beat ’em — make a wine out of it. This late-harvest style embraces the noble rot for an extra touch of complexity and a slightly higher RS.
Sauvignon Blanc
While many warmer wine regions have been producing this grape, Shaw looks to the varietal’s origin in the mid-climate region of Bordeaux. This wine is relatively rare in the Finger Lakes and can really surprise with its willingness to embrace acidity and depth.
Gewürztraminer
This zippy and fun white hates the winter lows in upstate New York, but when healthy the vines produce a tremendous white wine that embraces the characteristics of the Finger Lakes region. Like in its native habitats in France and Germany, this varietal simply excels in a cool climate.
Li Bella (Pinot Grigio)
This wine is made with an alternative label that has been successfully distributed to retailers throughout the greater New York region. However, the wine is made with the same exacting, handcrafted standards as all Shaw wine.
Chardonnay
This was one of the early wines at Shaw, but the transition of vineyards meant that it went out of production for several years. The re-release of aged vintages of Chardonnay have been a big hit with consumers, and new plantings will signal the re-emergence of this varietal at Shaw.