2025 Apollo's Praise - Gruner Veltliner Seneca Lake (750ml)

Apollo's Praise is the work of winemakers Kelby James Russell and Julia Rose Hoyle, who founded the winery in the Finger Lakes region after acquiring Lahoma Vineyard, a twenty acre site on the western shore of Seneca Lake long known for producing steely, mineral-driven Riesling. The couple has since expanded into other cool climate varieties, bringing the same site-focused approach that built the vineyard's reputation.

This Grüner Veltliner comes from a small parcel within Lahoma Vineyard, grown on the property's distinctive sandstone soils. Grapes are cold soaked prior to pressing, then fermented and aged in large format neutral oak, a method chosen to preserve the variety's natural texture without adding noticeable wood character. The approach reflects a classically Austrian style of winemaking, adapted to the vineyard's cool, lake-moderated climate.

The wine offers a plump, textured palate balanced by nervy acidity, with flavors of citrus, tropical fruit, white pepper, and green herbs rounding out to a stony, saline finish. It carries real energy without losing its sense of place. Pair it with roasted pork, herb-crusted chicken, or a soft, tangy goat cheese.