Dancing Coyote Chenin Blanc 2004
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Chad Joseph, has been making wines for Dancing Coyote Wines, since the inception of the brand in 2001. He loves that despite their size, they are renegades in the industry - from planting unique varietals, to trying new winemaking techniques and new packaging, such as kegs and now, cans! His focus is letting wines naturally become what they want to be - letting terroir (a wine’s “sense of place”) happen. According to Chad, “This might mean more wild fermentations, minimizing filtering and fining, and in general, taking more risks. To make artistic wines you can’t be afraid of making mistakes. You have to have faith and let things ride.” His passion for wine extends from the vineyard to the finished product. It’s not unusual for him to show up on weekends and work behind the tasting room counter!
Unquestionably one of the most diverse grape varieties, Chenin Blanc can do it all. It shines in every style from bone dry to unctuously sweet, oaked or unoaked, still or sparkling and even as the base for fortified wines and spirits. Perhaps Chenin Blanc’s greatest asset is its ever-present acidity, maintained even under warm growing conditions. Somm Secret—Landing in South Africa in the mid 1800s, today the country has double the acreage of Chenin Blanc planted compared to France. There is also a new wave of dedicated producers committed to restoring old Chenin vines.
The vineyards just inland from the Sacramento River Delta, along the deep banks of the Sacramento River, comprise the Clarksburg AVA. The River Delta channels in cold air and fog from the Pacific Ocean creating a cooling effect in this area. Warm summer days quickly change to chilly evenings and make a great environment for grape growing. While a range of grape varieties grow here, Chenin blanc stands out the most, distinguishing itself in the appellation.
The Clarksburg Wine Growers and Vintners Association, made up of nearly 50 grower members and over a dozen wineries, has been working since the late 1980s to promote the high quality wine of its region.