Isle St. George (AVA)
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Ohio: Oldest Brand-New Appellation in America
by Clark Smith
July 24, 2009

The wine regions of Ohio have provided us with overwhelmingly convincing proof that their venerable status as world class players is well deserved. If your taste runs to classic vinifera wines of aromatic intensity and good acidity, I cannot name a region in the New or Old World which offers such varietal and stylistic diversity, whether you’re in search of a special collectible for your cellar or a jolly good drink that will amaze tonight’s guests.

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Grape growing goes back more than 150 years on tiny Isle St. George, situated off the south shore of Lake Erie, just two miles from the Canadian border. This AVA covers a mere 700 acres and is only a mile long. However, over half of the land is planted with grapes. There are 15 families on the island. In winter, the island is surrounded by tiny wooden shacks – icehouses where fishermen come in hope of snagging a bass. The effects of the lake make this island appellation an excellent spot for growing grapes. Being shallow, Lake Erie is warmer than the other Great Lakes. Prevailing winds that continuously buffet the island are warmed by the waters, rendering temperatures during the growing season which are significantly higher than on the mainland. The climate is temperate and the growing season itself is quite long for the area - 200 days on average. Cool-climate varietals such as Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Noir, Delaware and Catawba thrive here, the last of which has been planted on Isle St. George for well over a century.

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In the southern Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and Georgia vineyards are small and few, yet the establishment of the Upper Hiwassee Highlands could bring much more.  [>] continue


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BLUE BOOK PROFILES

Blue Book Taste Profiles for the Isle St. George AVA

Gewurztraminer

Pinot Gris | Grigio

Vidal Blanc

Alive & Well here


Cabernet Sauvignon: All hail the King! But a king doth not a gentleman make. A temperamental prince in youth, you’re  [>] continue

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The AppellationAmerica database identifies 13 wines labeled with the Isle St. George designation.

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