Winemaker Notes
It seems as though the most challenging years for the grapevines can deliver the most compelling wines. In 2021, the lack of rain forced the vines to look deep for the nourishment they needed to ripen a small but very intense crop. Cool late season weather patterns helped the fruit develop fully while maintaining a remarkable level of acidity and aromatic expression. The Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon wines showed promise from the start—tropical and citrus tones, pit fruits, white flowers, a full spectrum of delicious fruit flavors. The energy of the Sauvignon Blanc is barely tempered by a generous addition of Semillon which broadens the wine and adds a honey component, while still allowing the bright glow of the Sauvignon Blanc to carry the day. This wine is exceptional now and will certainly evolve in the bottle, one can only guess how enjoyable it will be in 3 or 4 years.
Blend: 87% Sauvignon Blanc, 13% Semillon
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
The 2021 White Wine On The White Keys is more expressive and fruit-forward, with a kiss of tropical fruits as well as honeyed flowers and spice. The purity here is terrific, and the wine is medium to full-bodied, with a supple, elegant mouthfeel and a great finish. Based on 87% Sauvignon Blanc and 13% Semillon, it's another brilliant wine from this team.
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James Suckling
So much going on in this exotic and intense blend of 87% sauvignon blanc and 13% semillon. Tropical and ripe, with jack fruit, guava, spices and dried golden berries. Creamy, medium-to full-bodied palate that’s shimmering with energy.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Arietta's white wine, the 2021 On The White Keys, is a blend of 87% Sauvignon Blanc from Sonoma Mountain and 13% Semillon from Carneros. Barrel fermented in equal parts new French oak, used French oak and stainless steel barrels, it's nicely pungent, with smoke and mocha overtones accenting melon and fig aromas. Inspired by white Bordeaux, it's medium-bodied, tight and focused, with a mouthwatering finish. Best After 2023
Sometimes light and crisp, other times rich and creamy, Bordeaux White Blends typically consist of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. Often, a small amount of Muscadelle or Sauvignon Gris is included for added intrigue. Popularized in Bordeaux, the blend is often mimicked throughout the New World. Somm Secret—Sauternes and Barsac are usually reserved for dessert, but they can be served before, during or after a meal. Try these sweet wines as an aperitif with jamón ibérico, oysters with a spicy mignonette or during dinner alongside hearty Alsatian sausage.
Known for elegant wines that combine power and finesse, Carneros is set in the rolling hills that straddle the southernmost parts of both Sonoma and Napa counties. The cooling winds from the abutting San Pablo Bay, combined with lots of midday California sunshine, create an ideal environment for producing wines with a perfect balance of crisp acidity and well-ripened fruit.
This cooler pocket of California lends itself to growing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Syrah. Carneros is an important source of sparkling wines made in the style of Champagne as well.