Maker: Bowers Harbor Vineyards, Traverse City, Michigan, USA
Grape: Riesling (at least 85%)
Place of origin: Old Mission Peninsula AVA, Traverse City, Michigan, USA
Style: Semi-sweet Riesling
ABV: 12%
Price: $16 (2016 vintage, winery)
Note: Received a media discount and reduced price tour at time of purchase.
Appearance: Pale gold.
Nose: Very ripe peach, gravel road, sage, grapefruit.
Palate: Full-bodied. Orange push pop, pineapple juice.
Finish: Long and tart.
Parting words: Practically everybody in Michigan grows Riesling. For some wineries in Michigan, Riesling is a part of their identity. Bowers Harbor is one of those. I reviewed BHV’s 2013 Block II dry Riesling a few weeks ago and the 2010 Block II a while back.
This wine has almost all the same aromas as those wines, but with the sweetness dialed up. It reminds me of a relatively dry German Kabinett, but with the signature characteristics of OMP Riesling.
Pairs well with spicey food and the price is very good for a wine of this quality. There should still be a few 2013s lurking on shelves around Michigan, but if you can’t find any, pick up a bottle or twelve of the 2016 Medium Dry Riesling. Bowers Harbor Medium Sweet Riesling is recommended.
Sipology 