Rivers-Marie continues to be pleased with this fruit from Terry Adams’ small Occidental plot. At only a third of an acre but very tightly spaced the dense canopy allows for true ripening of the fruit given the low per plant crop load and some shading from neighboring rows. All the acidity possible is preserved at harvest time and that’s the first sensation that greets you on the palate. Green/gold in complexion, the nose is always very effusive showing notes of brioche from the oak and some varietal character of cut hay, white chocolate and tart citrus fruit. This wine, the feel, always holds more of its potential in reserve so the palate is subtle. The acidity that makes this vintage so great frames the finish and will also allow this wine to age gracefully for some time.