Channing Daughters Dornfelder Long Island 2015

Channing Daughters Dornfelder Long Island 2015

Dornfelder is a relatively recent arrival on the wine grape scene, having been created in 1956 by August Herold as a crossing of Helfensteiner and Heroldrebe. However, since Helfensteiner and Heroldrebe are also crossings, its lineage includes almost every red wine grape grown in Germany. It is especially important in the Rheinhessen and Pfalz regions and is the second most widely planted red grape variety in Germany.

The best examples use oak aging, making the most of Dornfelder’s ability to take on the additional textures and spice imparted by the barrique process. It is commonly made in a trocken (dry) style and is often blended with Germany’s most renowned red grape variety, Sptburgunder (Pinot Noir).

The grape has deep red flesh and produces wines that are rich in pigment and often display a slightly floral character. Due to its hardiness and resilience, much of its appeal and subsequent success with winemakers. Some say Dornfelder has all the best elements of its parents and few of their shortcomings.

Dornfelder is also grown in England where it may be blended with Pinot Noir or produced as a single-variety wine. It is often made into a ros due to its good acidity and the occasional hint of sweetness. In the United States, it is cultivated on both coasts, in particular the Finger Lakes and Sta. Rita Hills AVAs.