Good things are happening at M Cellars in the Grand River Valley appellation near Lake Erie in Northeastern Ohio. The first thing owner and winemaker Matt Meineke did when he bought his 12.6-acre farm was rip out the Niagara vines growing there and replace them with vinifera grapes. He started with Riesling and Pinot Noir then added more varieties including Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Chardonnay and the unusual (in the United States) Russian white grape, Rkatsiteli. Both the wines and the beautiful winery and patio are worth a drive out to wine country. Here are a few selections.
M Cellars Rkatsiteli, 2012 (Grand River Valley); $20.66
Bright melon and citrus aromas with an undercurrent of minerality; lively and crisp on the palate with vivid lemon/lime flavor and a hint of spice.
M Cellars Dry Rosé, 2012 (Grand River Valley); $19.72
Beautiful magenta color; lush, full, cherry aroma with vanilla notes; vibrant, clean, ripe berry flavor with brisk acidity and a crisp finish.
M Cellars Riesling, 2012 (Grand River Valley); $19.72
Aromas of honey, apple and pear; zippy acidity and bright Granny Smith apple flavor with a gentle touch of spice.
Prices may vary.
