It’s Saperavi Week at McGregor Vineyards

A version of this column was published was published 02/16/22 in The Observer and The Review & Express.

I didn’t intend to be writing about Saperavi again so soon, but with a weeklong celebration at McGregor Vineyards on the way I just couldn't help myself. By now you know of my newfound fascination with the teinturier grape thanks to the recent trade event across the lake at Dr. Frank’s. Since then it’s become hard for me to ignore the opportunity to try offerings throughout the region. When I heard of an experience open to the public on Keuka I naturally jumped at the chance.

“It’s exciting to mark new milestones,” says the winery’s Assistant Manager, Dan Jimerson. The event is a highly anticipated 2018 Saperavi Reserve release party, which has been aging in oak barrels for the last two years.

The full lineup includes a flight of five pre-release, current, and library wines. A 2013 Black Russian Red 36 Month Barrel Reserve will be an exciting example of the varietal’s ageability. Guests will also try the new full selection of Saperavi-labeled offerings: three expressions of the grape featuring 12, 24, and 36 month barrel aging.

“The most exciting part of this event is to share the first tastes of our 2017 Saperavi Grand Reserve. A long series of experiments with oak barrel aging has brought us this wine and this style,” says Dan. The Grand Reserve saw 36 months in oak and is nearly ready for release.

McGregor has already been hosting annual parties focused on enjoying their famed red to the fullest but this year is different. With the retirement of the Black Russian Red label and a brand refresh to honor the Saperavi grape, McGregor decided to redesign the experience as well.

Their Hammondsport neighbor, The Park Inn Restaurant, is providing food pairings throughout the week. On the menu are Khinkali-style soup dumplings to pay homage to the grape’s native roots of the country of Georgia.

To be mindful of guest flow and safety, reservations are required and groups of six or less can be accomodated. This year’s event runs February 12 - 20 between the hours of 11am - 5pm at McGregor’s tasting room overlooking Keuka Lake. Tickets are $25 and available via mmcgregorwinery.com

Go for the wine, stay for the Georgian-style dumplings and the view.