As I was checking out some wineries in the Finger Lakes, another one visited was Billsboro Winery.
They are “committed to crafting dry classic European varietal wines grown by Seneca Lake’s best vineyards. We are dedicated to focusing on small scale production, allowing us to devote more attention to providing a high quality product for our customers. Our commitment to quality is evident both in the glass and the experience we provide in our tasting room.”
It was quite busy when we were there and we had to wait in line for a bit to get up to the tasting station. We were close to leaving, then finally got a spot.
They charge $5 for a tasting and we also chose to each taste different wines so we could cover the menu together.
A Billsboro first! This sparkling dry Riesling pops with aromas of lime and bright citrus, followed by a surprising burst of black cherry and nectarine across the palate. Brilliant acidity and intense fruit flavors follow right through to the finish. This bubbly, dry Riesling is our recommendation for your next celebration! $18 – This wine uses 2 Riesling (grapes). Doesn’t taste like Rieslings, fun with the bubbles.
This 100% Pinot Gris has aromas of orange blossom and honeysuckle, giving way to crisp Golden Delicious apple and mouthwatering honeydew melon that lasts right through the finish. With its zesty and refreshing acidity, this Billsboro favorite pairs well with fish tacos, lobster rolls, or roasted chicken. $17 – Very good fruit, smooth and dry.
Crisp and fruit forward this Sauvignon Blanc bursts with ruby red grapefruit. Notes of lemon zest and peach dance across the palate in this cool climate wine. Enjoy this wine with fresh oysters or local goat cheese. $18 – Not much nose and not overly citrusy. Just very crisp.
Back by popular demand, this bone dry Chardonnay is fruit forward at the start followed by undertones of oak balancing out the finish. A highly constructed wine, 30% of the grapes were fermented on their skins in an Orange Wine style. The remaining fruit was pressed with 56% of the juice sent directly to the tank to ferment, and the remaining 14% spending the next 9 months fermenting and aging in neutral French oak barrels. Pairs well with pan seared salmon or Moroccan spiced chicken. $18. – No nose, was nice that it was more of a non-oaked Chard.
2015 Barrel Fermented Dry Riesling
This special release Riesling is 100% barrel fermented and aged for 8 months in neutral French oak barrels, giving this wine a weighty mouthfeel and roundness on the palate. Subtle citrus and slate flavors abound. $20 – No thanks, that’s all I can say.
This perfect lakeside sipping wine is 100% Vidal Blanc. A crisp and fruity wine with notes of grapefruit and lime zest. Enjoy this wine with Asian stir fry or Pecan Crusted Goat Cheese Salad with Raspberry Dressing. $12 – Subtle notes of citrus. Nice crisp bite.
This medium-sweet Riesling, offers a whisper of sweetness amid vibrant tropical fruit. A versatile food partner, this wine is a natural for taming the heat of spicier foods while leaving a touch of sweet on the palate. Try pairing this wine with pulled pork or spicy Thai coconut soup. $17 – Super sweet.
This classic representation of Finger Lakes rosé opens with crisp acidity balanced intense fruit for a refreshing finish that is sure to invigorate the taste buds. These grapes were destemmed and soaked for just 6 hours on the skins. Pair this versatile wine with a sharp Italian cheese or asparagus and prosciutto. $17 – Had a subtle smoke note to it. Very nice.
2015 Pinot Noir – Sawmill Creek Vineyards
Warm cedar delicately frames notes of smoke and clove, followed by a burst of cranberry across the palate. A hint of truffle lingers as it finishes. Pair with Wild Mushroom and Burrata Bruschetta or Garlic and Herb Roasted Pork Tenderloin. $25 – Very light, was almost ‘cheesy’.
A toasty bouquet precedes complex notes of ripe raspberry, orange zest and clove, followed by a savory and peppery finish. Pair this Bordeaux varietal with Wood-fired pizza or duck breast with a cherry reduction. $25 – Light, not much to it.
*90 points, Wine Enthusiast Magazine
This unique blend (66% Cabernet Sauvignon and 34% Syrah) projects a fragrant nose of dark fruit and vanilla bean. The palate is a generous mix of lush plum with an underlying hint of Applewood smoked bacon and spice. $30 – Heavier, not bad.
*90 points, Wine Enthusiast Magazine
Not bad but not great. Regardless, very fun to check out.
Mel's Mosaic 