Winemaker Notes
Wirz Vineyard is a rare find in California – 60-year-old head trained Riesling planted on its own roots. This unique plot sits on a bed of decomposed granite and limestone between the Gabian Range and the San Andreas Fault. Lime and orange blossom combine with a lovely chalky acid line, winemaker Nathan Kandler says: "I strive for a sense of place, the wines are allowed to ferment and age naturally. Wines from this vineyard seem to age effortlessly."
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.
Part of the larger Central Coast AVA, the valley was historically an important source of grapes for Almaden Vineyards before it was acquired by Constellation Brands in the 1980s. At 1,100 feet, the San Andreas Fault divides the valley so that one side is granite and sandstone, and the other is granite and limestone. Its position along the San Andreas fault makes the region well suited for excellent Central Coast wine production. Top varietals include Zinfandel, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling, and rose.