winemaker's notes:
What is that wonderfully robust, floral and bright tropical taste? Is it green apple, tangerine or honeysuckle? Could it possibly be apricot, melon, pear or light vanilla? That's the Conundrum. Our proprietarily secretive blend of California white grapes create a lush, creamy texture that leads to the mouth-watering question, "Mmmm, what's in there?" We're not telling. Can you guess?
Conundrum's success as a unique, complex blend of white grapes from California continues with the 2008 vintage in this fresh, lively, deeply-flavored wine.
This is the first vintage to be produced at the new production-only Conundrum winery in the Santa Lucia Highlands of Monterey County. Our wine's core profile remains thoroughly Californian, with Sauvignon Blanc grapes from the Napa Valley, Muscat Canelli from Tulare County on the Central Coast, and Chardonnay and Viognier from our vineyards in Monterey County. The "puzzle" of Conundrum lies partly in guessing the range of grape varieties we use, because we never reveal its exact composition.
We continue to have success in the twist-top closure. As a winemaker and someone who insists on wines without faults, I believe this closure is the right tool to protect the aromas and flavors that developed in the vineyards and were preserved in the bottle.
Gorgeous aromas of apricot, honeysuckle, and vanilla and lime zest enhance a deeply-flavored palate of tropical fruit, peach, pear and honeydew melon flavors. The complexity of this wine is brought into balance with a rich, round, soft texture; fresh, supportive acidity; and a stunning, satisfying finish.
User Reviews
The top 3 most liked reviews for this wine.
I found this wine to be delightfully drinkable. Its color and bouquet were also pleasing. It's one of the best bargins I have found in terms of quality and price.
What a difference a year makes! I prefer the 2008 Conundrum over 2009, which is much sweeter than to my liking. Although Conundrum drinks easily at first, I don't find myself going back to it like a CA Chardonnay or IT Gavi.
amazing white blend. defies simple catagories. on the sweet side, so our lady drinkers enjoyed.
Fruity & Smooth
We tried this wine on a whim and we can't get enough of it! It's crazy because we usually drink red. Everybody talks about "big reds" so lets call this one a "big white".
I'm almost a 'non-drinker.' However, I have an excellent palette that can recall wines for years. The Conundrum is a, well, Conundrum. It is not oaky, not buttery, not this, not that. And, in that list of 'nots' - it is not a wine for those preferring strong signature tastes. It's a delightful wine for - Sissies. I mean this in a good way, as many a party or other gathering will have their share of Sissies. It's fruity and light without being a Riesling or a Mosel. I do think it is a bit pricey for this mildness; but, supply and demand will determine that.
This is wonderful wine to pair with white meat and spiecy food.
I read the reviews and sweetness was mentioned. I agree. A bit sweet for my taste except with spicy Asian food- Chinese, Tai etc.
GFB - New Port Richey, FL (
read all my reviews)
Have enjoyed this wine for quite a few years. I think the 2008 release is the equal of 2004, which was my previous favorite.
Don't let the table wine label fool you. Excellent white that pleases nearly everyone.
What a pleasant surprise, finding a wine that is best out of a bota bag. Great for those back country hikes (and sporting events if you can get through security)!
Think 50/50 chardonnay/voginer. Great color. Crowd pleaser for regular wine drinkers and novices. Voginer flavors overwhelms eventually.
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Wish List - 2/20/2012
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Wish List - 1/30/2013
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