What's in My Glass Wednesdays! 2009 Reserve Gewurztraminer by Nimble Hill Vineyard & Winery

Another fabulous Pennsylvania wine that deserves some recognition!  There's several wine treasures in the Scranton area along with a beautiful backdrop of fresh water streams and endless hills and mountains of trees.  It's simply gorgeous in the summer time, and I'm sure the winters are breathtaking.  If you're up towards the Poconos, make sure you stop by some of the local wineries.  They will be sure to please!

2009 Reserve Gewurztraminer by Nimble Hill Vineyard and Winery

(Photos from Nimble Hill's website)

The D-2010 Scale 

2009 Reserve Gewurztraminer by Nimble Hill Vineyard & Winery (Pennsylvania)

Appearance (10 points possible): pale yellow, almost white in color, complete clear - 10 points

Aroma/Bouquet (20 points possible): Spicy, citrus, slight strawberry, canned pineapple, tropical fruit, guava, and floral. - 20 points

Taste (10 points possible):  Very light on the palate and all up front.  The finish is this falls short and is slightly overwhelmed by the 13.6% alcohol.  Lots of pineapple and spice on the palate with a floral aftertaste.  Light bodied and delicate, with a slight hint of astringency.  - 7 points

Balance (5 points possible): The wine is slightly disintegrated, but again, I believe this is to the dominating alcohol with the fruit.  - 3 points

Finish (5 points possible):  Finish is short and quick, with a slight ethanol burn.  Leaves a lingering hint of floral characters on the palate and a touch of spice, which is common with Gewurz. - 3 points

Packaging *Introduction to the D-2010 Scale*

Quality of Package (5 points possible):  Beautiful aromatic white bottle with a synthetic cork.  For this wine, I think the cork choice is appropriate. - 4 points

Label Marketability (10 points possible):  Nimble Hill's traditional label is meant to incorporate all the surrounding farms and neighbors of Nimble Hill's vineyard and production site.  It's not overly flashy, but very classy.  I truthfully like the story behind the label.  It emphasizes the "drink local" mentality that is quite important in today's market.  I wish I would've grabbed a picture of this label! - 7 points

Other (5 points possible): There's nothing extra about the package, although it looks very nice in a wine basket with some of the other well made aromatic white varieties. - 3 points

Total Points: 87 points

Overall Thought: My only disappointment in this wine is that the grapes are sourced from New York and not Pennsylvania.  Although the production area for this winery is very close to New York state so it makes sense to source some of their grapes from a bit farther north.  Regardless, the Gewurz is quite pleasant, and compared to the 2010, I enjoy the delicate nature of the 2009 vintage year.  For those that enjoy a heavier, meatier Gewurz, the 2010 would be your pick.

Food Pairings:  This is a good Thai or spicy food wine.  It would also pair well with seafood and shellfish.

Cost: The 2009 is almost sold out, but the 2010 is $16

Splurge Factor (out of 4): 1 - for this wine and it's quality, you are getting a good deal.

Where to buy:  Nimble Hill has 2 tasting rooms in the Scranton area, but their wine is also served at several restaurants throughout Pennsylvania.  For a full listing of where to buy Nimble Hill wines, please visit their website.  Cheers!