Winemaker Notes
Riesling is always ready to put on a show. In cooler vintages, such as 2023, the
extra hangtime on the vine definitely enhances the aromatic diversity of this opulent variety. Honeysuckle, white peach and lime leaf set off a cascade of tropical and perfume notes. The citrus and fresh cut flowers, in general, are quite striking, lending an enticing freshness. There’s a hint of ginger as well; but overall, any subtle spice is currently overshadowed by the abundant, generous fruit.
You'll just adore the red apple here, which contrasts the nectarine and Meyer lemon characteristics beautifully. On the midpalate, there’s a soft, subtle touch of honey that mellows the acidity and ties each disparate, primary element together. The ginger on the nose has morphed into juicy Asian pear—just gorgeous.
The tropical and stone fruit elements push their way to the forefront on the finish, first as pineapple and then as ripe apricot. There is just enough acid to balance these out as lemongrass and jasmine draw out the latent texture and soft minerality of this wine.
Riesling possesses a remarkable ability to reflect the character of wherever it is grown while still maintaining its identity. A regal variety of incredible purity and precision, this versatile grape can be just as enjoyable dry or sweet, young or old, still or sparkling and can age longer than nearly any other white variety. Somm Secret—Given how difficult it is to discern the level of sweetness in a Riesling from the label, here are some clues to find the dry ones. First, look for the world “trocken.” (“Halbtrocken” or “feinherb” mean off-dry.) Also a higher abv usually indicates a drier Riesling.
Located in northern Mendocino County, the Potter Valley appellation is centered on the town of Potter Valley directly east of Redwood Valley.