Winemaker Notes
The gnarled old Sauvignon Blanc vines at the Randle Hill Vineyard were planted in 1982 in the Yorkville Highlands of Mendocino County. This rugged and remote site is farmed organically on a steep hillside of eroding shale, situated at 1,100' elevation, where it enjoys warm days and cool nights. The wine exhibits mineral and saline flavors balanced with a hint of herbaceous and floral aromatics.
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.
A unique appellation placed in between the warm, Sonoma County Alexander Valley and the cooler Mendocino County's Anderson Valley, the Yorkville Highlands’ gravel soils are ideal for Bordeaux varieties and other full-bodied reds.