History of Riesling

[winecollector]

This is just a thought, but could it be that the popularity of some wines are more regional than others? Correct me if I'm wrong, but New York is a major player in Riesling production. Is it not then understandable, that in the northeastern section of the U.S., Riesling (especially N.Y. Rieslings) be more popular in the northeast, than in other parts of the world? I know that here in PA, some of my friends, and even myself, will chose a regional wine over a foreign wine solely based on the fact that it's "local." There is a degree of, I guess you could say, "pride," that tends to influence people at times, almost like a form of "patriotism." Like I said, I'm guilty of it myself!

Therefore, in your area of "wine country" Foodie, I'm more inclined to think that the experiences you've had with the tasting rooms is possibly just as psychologically influenced as it is by taste. Don't get me wrong, I'm not badmouthing the wines- they are good. But I've got to admit, that if Randy has eateries in that many different locations, he's going to have a better idea of what the larger scope of people are preferring to drink, than someone in just one area, myself included.

I've got a killer concord / muscat blend that me and a buddy made from last years grapes, that I beleive will hold it's own against any riesling. We even "slipped it into a taste testing with seven other wines this spring, with very positive feedback. Grown in PA, made in PA. But I'll bet you that it would take years, possibly even a decade, to get anyone to show an interest in it outside of PA.

[This message has been edited by winecollector (edited 06-02-2000).]