Winemaker Notes
This Sauvignon Blanc is both classic in its freshness and nuanced in its aromas and flavors. Aromas of candied grapefruit, magnolia leaf, crushed river gravel, and hints of wild chamomile dance from the glass. The entry is bright and inviting. On the palate, complex flavors of candied lime, evening honeysuckle, and orange honeydew flesh give way to an energetic finish that is focused and fresh. Enjoy this wine with light appetizers, salads, seafood dishes or on its own on a warm summer evening.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
From the producer’s Hardie Ranch, this is a 100%-varietal white fermented and aged in both stainless steel and oak foudre. The creamy palate brings elements of peach, dried herb and freshly cut grass, with a lengthy finish of stone.
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 multifaceted and highly reputable sub-region of Sonoma, Dry Creek Valley is responsible for a wide range of wine styles—both red and white. One of the smallest AVAs in California, Dry Creek Valley has a winning combination of ideal geography and climate. Fertile, well-drained soils create concentrated varietal character while long, warm days, bookended by cool nights, allow grapes to reach full phenolic ripeness and balance. The warm and welcoming appellation is home to a number of family-owned vineyards and wineries that place a strong emphasis on sustainable farming practices.
Zinfandel reigns supreme here and still produces in a great number of very old vineyards—often 100 years old or older. These old vines create a powerful, voluptuous and sultry wine unlike those of any other region. Sauvignon Blanc, the valley’s signature white grape, also performs exceptionally well. Many other varieties grow comfortably here, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Syrah. Petite Sirah is often found in blends with Zinfandel.