Wines - 2023 Sauvignon Blanc

Our Sauvignon Blanc is a lively, yet elegant, expression of this varietal that gathers its complexity from both the diversity of terroir running north to south in the Napa Valley and from the inclusion of the rich and unctuous Sémillon grape. This blend includes Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon from our estate vineyards in Calistoga, Stags Leap District, and Carneros. A grower vineyard in eastern Rutherford is home to old vines planted to a heritage Musqué clone that provides density, richness, and lemon citrus notes. Finally, old vine Sémillon from another site in Calistoga gives the wine an expansive mouth-coating richness that is the hallmark of our style.

The fruit was hand-harvested in the cool darkness of night and arrived at the winery at dawn. The grapes were then held in controlled low oxygen and cold temperatures. Gentle, whole-cluster pressing released the delicate, prized juices and created a deeper level of complexity. The juice was fermented in 86% French oak barrels, 29% of which were new, and 14% stainless steel tanks. All fermentations were conducted at cold temperatures to preserve the freshness of the fruit. Upon reaching dryness, the wine was aged on its lees and select lots underwent occasional bâtonnage.

Opening with alluring aromas of lime flower, grapefruit, and elderflower, the 2023 Sauvignon Blanc’s charm is inescapable. Kiwi and lychee flavors melt into pear and white peach as the bright entry dances into a wide, creamy mid-palate with unctuous orange marmalade layers. The finish is long and broad, laden with notes of toasted brioche, beeswax, and a crystalline minerality accompanying a precise finish. – Christopher Tynan, Director of Winemaking