Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery Grüner Veltliner
WHY WE LOVE IT
- An Austrian grape planted in 2007 on their Seneca Estate vineyards in Hector, New York. This areas is known as the “Banana Belt” for its warm climate that promotes a longer growing season.
- The deep Honeoye silt loam soils enhance flavor and vine health.
- In 2023, the Seneca and Keuka estate vineyards received New York Sustainable Winegrowing Certification.
Varietal Composition: 100% Grüner Veltliner
Elaboration: Winemaking begins with de-stemming grapes, followed by direct pressing to extract juice gently. Pneumatic presses efficiently extract juice while reducing oxidation. The juice is stored in stainless steel tanks for purity, with temperature control during fermentation to enhance flavors. Many winemakers use traditional methods and avoid malolactic fermentation to keep the wine’s acidity and character intact.
Tasting Notes: This Grüner Veltliner opens with aromas of candied lime, apricot, and stoniness. The palate reveals ripe green apple, lime, and stone fruit in a rich, round texture, balanced by lime-driven acidity that adds brightness. It combines freshness with richness, offering a clean, mineral finish—an exciting expression of the grape and its origin.
PRESS
2023 -92 James Suckling | 92 Wine Enthusiast | 92 Decanter
PRODUCER BACKGROUND
Konstantin Frank was born on July 4, 1899, and made his first wine at age 15. In 1930, he earned a Ph.D. in Viticulture from Odessa, Ukraine, and became a leading expert in his field throughout Eastern Europe, experimenting with cold-resistant rootstocks.
Having survived two World Wars and the Russian Revolution, Dr. Frank and his family immigrated to New York in 1951 at age 52 with empty pockets and no knowledge of English. Eventually, he found a special property in the Finger Lakes region, perfect for his vines. With decades of knowledge and experience, Dr. Frank successfully planted the first European grape varieties in the Eastern United States.
In 1962, he founded Vinifera Wine Cellars, which quickly earned a reputation for spectacular Rieslings and sparked an interest in classic European grape varieties. His vision, knowledge, and determination are credited with elevating the New York wine industry to the respectable position it holds today. Many of his original vines are still in production and represent some of the oldest vines in America.
On October 7, 1967, more than two hundred wine enthusiasts gathered at Dr. Frank’s home to organize the American Wine Society (AWS) with Dr. Konstantin Frank as its founder. Today, there are more than 120 chapters.