Winemaker Notes
This 2015 Pinot Blanc is filled with bright flavors and captivating minerality. Stunning aromas of lemon-lime and floral emerge at the first pour. The palate is initially greeted with citrus followed by evolving flavors of wet rock, cantaloupe and peach. Its impressive concentration is softened by a balanced acidity and lingering toasted oak on the finish. Pair with Orecchiette pasta tossed with grilled asparagus and a creamy garlic and herb sauce.
Approachable, aromatic and pleasantly plush on the palate, Pinot Blanc is a white grape variety most associated with the Alsace region of France. Although its heritage is Burgundian, today it is rarely found there and instead thrives throughout central Europe, namely Germany and Austria, where it is known as Weissburgunder and Alto Adige where it is called Pinot Bianco. Interestingly, Pinot Blanc was born out of a mutation of the pink-skinned Pinot Gris. Somm Secret—Chardonnay fans looking to try something new would benefit from giving Pinot Blanc a try.
Located in the Gabilan Mountains east of the fertile Salinas Valley, Chalone is named for the nearby Chalone peaks and produces fine Chardonnay and Pinot noir, among others.