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I was a little disappointed in not being able to find the Chateau Grand Traverse Semi-Dry Riesling in my neighborhood when I reviewed the other three 2008s a few weeks ago. I would have preferred to have published notes on the four of them together for continuity’s sake but was unwilling to wait, not knowing when a bottle of the Semi-Dry might turn up. And so it was that I happened to stumble upon a stash of these at a good price last Friday at Plum Market in West Bloomfield. I didn’t think twice before grabbing one, paying for it, bringing it home, chilling it down and opening it that very evening. I was very pleased with what I found, and here are my impressions.

2008 Chateau Grand Traverse Old Mission Peninsula Semi-Dry Riesling, 12% alc., $10.99: Medium straw color, with ripe red and green apple flavors and aromas that gain a pleasing note of lime and an undertone of mineral as it opens and warms in the glass. It’s not dry, with about a Kabinett level of sweetness, or maybe a bit more. Medium bodied, with excellent acids and a finish that lingers nicely, this is rich and almost unctuous, with a somewhat oily texture that’s somewhat reminiscent of an Alsatian Riesling.

This is a very satisfying wine in every way, and I find it interesting that with this vintage, the two that I like the most are the sweetest selections, the other being the Late Harvest. It will pair well with a variety of spicy Asian dishes and it drinks quite well all by itself. All in all, another winner from Chateau Grand Traverse! Find this wine

Reporting from Day-twah,

geo t.

Related posts:

1. 3 2008 Chateau Grand Traverse Rieslings
2. Tasting Leelanau: Chateau Fontaine
3. 2008 Domaine La Garrigue Côtes-du-Rhône Cuvée Romaine

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