2017 Influence Malbec Tasting Notes
The 2017 Influence Wines Malbec is produced 100% from fruit grown on the North Fork of Long Island. The fruit was harvested October 30, 2017. All production is done at Premium Wine Group, a custom crush facility on the North Fork of Long Island, where it was fermented, aged in oak, and bottled April 18, 2018. This is an exclusive wine, with only 3,650 bottles produced, each one individually numbered on the label.

The goal in producing Influence Wines Malbec is to accentuate the fruit forward qualities of this varietal. The fermentation was kept short in order to limit the extraction of tannins and allow the fruit to shine. Malolactic fermentation occurred in two year old French oak barrels and oak aged for 5 months. Floral with notes of wild raspberry and blueberry mixed with hints of black pepper and vanilla spice. Fresh and soft on the finish. Juicy.

Brix at Harvest – 21.6
Ph- 3.57
Titratable Acid – 6.38
Aged – 100% French Oak, second use
Bottled – April 18, 2018

2017 Influence Riesling Tasting Notes
The 2017 Influence Wines Riesling is produced 100% from fruit grown in the Finger Lakes Wine Region. The fruit was harvested October 24, 2018 and pressed in the Finger Lakes. The juice was then refrigerated and sent to Premium Wine Group, a custom crush facility on the North Fork of Long Island, where it was fermented and bottled April 18, 2018. This is an exclusive wine, with only 5,597 bottles produced, each one individually numbered on the label.

With no added sugar or acids this Riesling is a true expression of pure fruit quality and Finger Lakes terroir. The nose is full of dried apricot, spiced tea, and wet stone. The palate is fresh with great balance and intensity of flavors, look for apple and white peach flavors with a touch of lime. Enjoy the undercurrent of minerality and crisp finish. This wine is great as an aperitif or with fresh seafood. It is even bold enough to cut through the richness of pâtés, any cheese or even grilled sausages.

Brix at Harvest – 19.7
Residual Sugar – 13 grams/liter
Ph- 3.12
Titratable Acid – 6.43
Bottled – April 18, 2018

Winemaking
Every vintage a winemaker’s goal is to showcase the best attributes from the fruit he is presented. Fruit intensity, acidity, and sugar balance are all attributes which bring a wine to a harmonious blend of aroma, flavor, and palette impression. The winemakers’ influence determines the quality seen in the glass.

Once harvested, Influence Riesling is delivered to East Coast Crush in Naples, NY, where the experienced staff led by Tim Benedict crush, press, and cold settle the juice, which is then shipped to Premium Wine Group on the North Fork of Long Island. Upon arrival, winemaker Erik P. Bilka begins the winemaking process. The juice is fermented in stainless steel tanks. Before completion fermentation is halted in order to maintain the natural residual sugars found in this semi-dry vintage. The refining process which involves separating natural occurring sediment from the final product is done delicately in order to preserve the fruits integrity. This minimalist approach by the winemaker influencing only what the juice requires, allows the fruit to be showcased in the final wine.

Previous Vintages

2016 Influence Riesling

Brix at Harvest – 19.3
Ph- 3.02
Titratable Acid – 5.76
Residual Sugar – 13.2 grams/ liter
Aged – 100% Stainless Steel Tank
Bottled – March 8, 2017

2015 Influence Riesling

Brix at Harvest – 21.5
Ph- 3.00
Titratable Acid – 7.01
Residual Sugar – 20.00 grams/ liter
Aged – 100% Stainless Steel Tank
Bottled – April 12, 2016

2014 Influence Malbec

Brix at Harvest – 22.9
Ph- 3.50
Titratable Acid – 6.33
Aged – 100% French Oak, second use
Bottled – April, 2015

2014 Influence Riesling

Brix at Harvest – 19.8
Ph- 2.99
Titratable Acid – 6.86
Residual Sugar – 16.00 grams/ liter
Aged – 100% Stainless Steel Tank
Bottled – April, 2015

2013 Influence Riesling

Brix at Harvest – 21.9
Ph- 3.06
Titratable Acid – 8.52
Residual Sugar – 22.00 grams/ liter
Aged – 100% Stainless Steel Tank
Bottled – March 18, 2014 - 510 cases

2012 Influence Riesling

Brix at Harvest – 20.3
Ph- 3.02
Titratable Acid – 7.11
Residual Sugar – 23.00 grams/ liter
Aged – 100% Stainless Steel Tank
Bottled – January 30, 2013

2011 Influence Riesling

Brix at Harvest – 20.1
Ph – 3.05
Titratable Acid – 6.86
Residual Sugar – 18.00 grams/ liter
Aged – 100% Stainless Steel Tank
Bottled – March 7, 2012

2010 Influence Riesling

Brix at Harvest – 19.8
Ph – 3.10
Titratable Acid – 7.02
Residual Sugar – 22.00 grams/ liter
Aged – 100% Stainless Steel Tank
Bottled – March 31, 2011