At a glance

Producer

Ravines Wine Cellars

Region

Finger Lakes, New York, USA

Grape variety

Pinot Noir (100%)

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$22 - $28 USD (750ml retail, as of 2024)

Tasting profile

Vivid red cherry, raspberry, and cranberry notes with underlying red floral, subtle earth, and gentle toasted oak nuance. Crisp acidity and mineral undertones with a delicate, silky texture.

Evolution: In the next 1-3 years, expect the fruit to soften into more dried red berry and subtle savory elements; tertiary notes of autumn leaf, mushroom, and faint spice will emerge.

At peak: A complex balance of fresh red fruit and emerging earthy/savory flavors, with all structural elements (tannin, acid, oak) fully integrated, and a harmonious, medium-bodied palate.

Structure

Acidity

Lively, medium-plus acidity typical of Finger Lakes' cool climate; acidity provides freshness and supports short to medium-term aging.

Tannins

Fine-grained, silky tannins typical of cool-climate Pinot Noir, currently very approachable and beginning to integrate seamlessly into the palate. Tannins are resolving quickly due to the region and style.

Alcohol

Moderate (typically 12.5-13%), already well integrated; does not dominate the palate.

Aging potential

4-6 years from vintage, best enjoyed young to mid-term for vibrancy and clarity.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2024 to 2026

Optimal window

2023 to 2027

Current status

Ready now, entering optimal window

Current condition

Youthful and vibrant with well-integrated primary fruit and subtle development; fresh and balanced

The 2024-2026 period represents the peak for this wine because Finger Lakes Pinot Noir shows best when primary fruit freshness is still prominent, but some bottle age brings secondary savory notes and aromatic complexity. During this period, tannins have fully resolved, acidity is still energetic, but flavors have woven together. After 2026, fruit diminishes, aromatics fade, and the wine risks becoming thin and muted.

Food pairing

Classic pairings: duck breast with cherry reduction, roast chicken with herbs, salmon, pork tenderloin, mushroom risotto, or lentil stew. The wine's acidity and fruit make it versatile; at peak, earthier dishes (like wild mushroom pizza or roasted root vegetables) become ideal. As the wine ages and becomes earthier, pair with more umami-driven or savory fare.

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Low-intervention viticulture, soil health focus, minimal chemical inputs, and biodiversity encouragement.

Ravines Wine Cellars emphasizes sustainable farming but lacks formal organic/biodynamic certifications. Their efforts in environmental stewardship and focus on long-term vineyard health contribute positively to sustainability, but third-party validation would strengthen their profile.