Malk Family Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2015
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Wine Spectator
Aromatic, with honeysuckle and peach flavors that are intense and balanced against a crisp lime core. Shows oomph and spice on the finish.
Other Vintages
2019-
James
Suckling
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James
Suckling
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James
Suckling
The inspiration behind the Malk Family Vineyards logo was their beloved Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Griffin, who recently passed away at the age of 15 1/2. The complex layers of his personality displayed a bold yet colorful character, which exemplify the attributes of the wine his portrait graces. Brian and Nancy intend to uphold his honor with every vintage.
Capable of a vast array of styles, Sauvignon Blanc is a crisp, refreshing variety that equally reflects both terroir and varietal character. Though it can vary depending on where it is grown, a couple of commonalities always exist—namely, zesty acidity and intense aromatics. This variety is of French provenance. Somm Secret—Along with Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc is a proud parent of Cabernet Sauvignon. That green bell pepper aroma that all three varieties share is no coincidence—it comes from a high concentration of pyrazines (herbaceous aromatic compounds) inherent to each member of the family.
As one of Napa’s coolest sub-appellations, the area begs for diversity among its vineyards. Merlot and Chardonnay firmly compete with Cabernet Sauvignon for a place here. Some of Napa’s best Zinfandels also come from the Oak Knoll District.
Situated far in Napa’s southern end, Oak Knoll receives a strong cooling influence from both the San Pablo Bay and the Pacific Coast’s evening fog and breezes. Summer days are warm but on average ten degrees cooler than in St. Helena farther north up the valley; summer nights are chilly. A long growing season promotes for leisurely ripening of grape berries, resulting in an impressive balance of sugars, phenols and acidity.
Notable producers include Trefethen, one of the appellation’s oldest wineries, Robert Biale, legendary Zinfandel producer and Lewis Cellars, a family-run, hands-on establishment.