Winemaker Notes
This wine shows brilliant, integrated complexity led by a floral bouquet of jasmine, honeysuckle and spring citrus blossom; followed by fruit flavors of green apple, D’anjou pear, fresh Meyer lemon and tangerine. Focused, Riesling-driven minerality is one of the many layers of texture that offer a nod of respect to the great aromatic whites of France, Germany and Austria. It is a deliciously dry wine that is great with the classics - cheese, cassoulet, tarte flambée - but really shines with the foods of the world - Mexican, Thai, Chinese, Japanese and Indian.
With hundreds of white grape varieties to choose from, winemakers have the freedom to create a virtually endless assortment of blended white wines. In many European regions, strict laws are in place determining the set of varieties that may be used in white wine blends, but in the New World, experimentation is permitted and encouraged. Blending can be utilized to enhance balance or create complexity, lending different layers of flavors and aromas. For example, a variety that creates a soft and full-bodied white wine blend, like Chardonnay, would do well combined with one that is more fragrant and naturally high in acidity. Sometimes small amounts of a particular variety are added to boost color or aromatics. Blending can take place before or after fermentation, with the latter, more popular option giving more control to the winemaker over the final qualities of the wine.
Known for elegant wines that combine power and finesse, Carneros is set in the rolling hills that straddle the southernmost parts of both Sonoma and Napa counties. The cooling winds from the abutting San Pablo Bay, combined with lots of midday California sunshine, create an ideal environment for producing wines with a perfect balance of crisp acidity and well-ripened fruit.
This cooler pocket of California lends itself to growing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Syrah. Carneros is an important source of sparkling wines made in the style of Champagne as well.