2005 Ventana Vineyards Riesling, Monterey, Arroyo Seco.

SENSORY ASSESSMENT:

This wine displays a medium depth golden straw color. The nose shows crisp apple and citrus peel at lower temperatures. With increasing temperature, apricot and aromas of fresh, sweet white flowers come forth. The palate starts with lots of green apple which goes on to dominate the apricot and light honeyed, fig and nutty notes. Distinct minerality accents the light to medium body of this  off-dry wine. On the finish, citrus intermingles with stone fruit and a mineral note.

OPINION: 

True to terroir, this 2005 Arroyo Seco Riesling readily offers up its charms. A juxtaposition of rich and broad extraction with measured alcohol levels, this wine makes a wonderful food pairing particularly with spicy Asian dishes as well as traditional European ones. With proper cellaring, this wine should drink well through 2010.

BOTTOM LINE:

Very good.

Highly recommended.