- Standing Stone Blanc de Blanc 2020
- Cabernet Franc 2023
- Standing Stone Pétillant Naturel 2024
- Chardonnay HJW Vineyard 2023
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Standing Stone Blanc de Blanc 2020
From the first Standing Stone Blanc de Blanc we made in 2017, we knew this site was special. The fruit source of the original Chardonnay block was planted by Charles Fournier in 1974. This gives the wines a depth and complexity that is hard to replicate from younger vines, and whose concentration contributes to the firm, tense, seductive flavors that fall between green apple, lemon, and leesy brioche notes. After 52 months of resting on the lees and zero dosage, this round, but bright, 100% Chardonnay exemplifies the potential that Fournier originally saw in this site, and our efforts, inspired by his original vision.
Cabernet Franc is exceptionally well-suited to the Finger Lakes, and for us at Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard, the western shores of Seneca Lake are ideal for cultivating this variety, where the cool climate, and moderating influence of the lakes help this grape develop its hallmark aromatics, freshness, and refined structure. The 2023 vintage offered ideal conditions with early rains leading to a warm summer and extended ripening. In the cellar, we maintain a restrained approach: native fermentation and aging primarily in stainless steel—with a small portion in neutral oak—preserve bright fruit, savory notes, and subtle texture, resulting in a wine that is both approachable and layered.
Bright red cherry and tomato leaf lead the aromatics, followed, red currant, and subtle blackberry on the palate. As the wine opens, hints of soil add depth, supported by well-structured yet plush tannins. Versatile and inviting, it pairs beautifully with pork ragù, venison ravioli, or a hearty vegetarian chili.
Standing Stone Pétillant Naturel 2024
The very first Pétillant Naturel in the Hermann J. Wiemer and Standing Stone story marks an exciting new chapter for our sparkling program. For decades, Méthode Traditionnelle has been our benchmark—first at Wiemer beginning in 1983, and later at Standing Stone in 2017. It’s a style we know well. But with the healthy fruit of the 2024 vintage, we felt inspired to explore something new.
We turned to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, varieties whose fermentations and site expressions we understand after years of working with them. Pétillant Naturel, a low-intervention method in which the wine finishes fermentation inside the bottle. This approach preserves the nature of the fruit, resulting in a style that’s lightly effervescent. This is an easy bottle to open with friends—perfect alongside charcuterie, snacks, or anything you enjoy before heading out for the evening.
Hermann first planted Chardonnay on our HJW Vineyard in 1977. Today, the site remains largely unchanged in layout, but its ecology has evolved through the introduction of cover crops, wildflower strips, and honey bees—all central components of our Biodynamic farming program.
The fruit was hand-picked and hand-sorted on Fruit Days, then fermented with native yeast. Eighty percent of which was in a 2,000L Austrian Fuder to develop subtle texture and weight, while the remaining 20% was in stainless steel to maintain freshness.
The wine opens with precise aromas of Meyer lemon, green apple, and white blossoms. The palate shows gentle texture and a clean, persistent finish. It’s a versatile companion at the table—pair it with roasted chicken, seasonal vegetables, or simple dishes that let its delicacy shine.