Winemaker Notes
Like a breath of fresh air, this wine celebrates life! The beautiful, light-straw color is immediately appealing to the eye, while the aroma and flavor hint at white peach, apricot, citrus (mandarin and lemon), green apple and the juicy first bite of a fresh white pineapple. Behind these primary notes are traces of vanilla and creme brûlée with the slightest nuance of tarragon and flint. The flavors are bright and crisp, with an amazingly zesty mid-palate that leads into a lengthy finish. This wine has an Old World soul, executed with New World precision.
Approachable, aromatic and pleasantly plush on the palate, Pinot Blanc is a white grape variety most associated with the Alsace region of France. Although its heritage is Burgundian, today it is rarely found there and instead thrives throughout central Europe, namely Germany and Austria, where it is known as Weissburgunder and Alto Adige where it is called Pinot Bianco. Interestingly, Pinot Blanc was born out of a mutation of the pink-skinned Pinot Gris. Somm Secret—Chardonnay fans looking to try something new would benefit from giving Pinot Blanc a try.
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.