Investigating the Science of Terroir: How the Finger Lakes Climate Impacts Riesling
When it comes to wine, the term "terroir" refers to the environmental factors, including soil, climate, and topography, that influence the grapes' growth and contribute to the wine's unique flavor and aroma. Understanding how terroir affects winemaking is essential for any wine enthusiast, and the Finger Lakes region in New York State is a great place to start.
One of the most popular grape varietals in the Finger Lakes is Riesling, and the region has gained a reputation for producing some of the best Rieslings in the world. But what is it about the Finger Lakes climate that makes it so ideal for growing this grape?
The Climate of the Finger Lakes
The Finger Lakes region is located in the northeast of the United States, and its unique microclimate is influenced by the surrounding bodies of water. The Finger Lakes themselves, formed by glaciers during the last ice age, help to moderate temperatures, prolonging the growing season and protecting the vines from early frosts.
The region experiences cool to cold winters and warm to hot summers. The temperature fluctuation between the day and the night is also significant, which can help to develop more complex flavor profiles in the grapes. This diurnal temperature range is crucial for Riesling grapes, which thrive in cooler climates.
The Finger Lakes also has a high level of precipitation, with an average of 36 inches of rain per year. This rainfall is beneficial for grape growth, but the humidity it creates can also lead to mold and disease. Winemakers in the region need to monitor their vineyards carefully to ensure that the grapes remain healthy.
The Effects of the Finger Lakes Climate on Riesling
So how does the Finger Lakes climate impact the taste of Riesling? Firstly, the cooler climate allows the grapes to ripen more slowly, giving them more time to develop complex flavors and a balance of acidity and sweetness. The soil in the Finger Lakes region also has a high mineral content, which can contribute to the wine's unique flavor profile.
The diurnal temperature range in the Finger Lakes can also create a phenomenon known as "hang time." Hang time refers to the amount of time the grapes spend on the vine before harvest. In regions with a large diurnal temperature range, grapes can hang longer without fermenting or rotting, allowing their flavors to develop further. This hang time can lead to more concentrated flavor profiles in the grapes, which can result in a more complex wine.
In conclusion, the Finger Lakes region's unique climate plays a crucial role in the production of high-quality Rieslings. The combination of cool temperatures, high precipitation, and a significant diurnal temperature range contributes to the grapes' unique flavor profiles and allows them to develop slowly over time.
If you're a Riesling fan, a trip to the Finger Lakes region should definitely be on your wine-focused bucket list.
