Richly textured, aromatic and bright, this appellation blend is brilliant pale straw in color and scented with lemongrass, white flowers and a touch of orange rind.A sleek, silky palate reveals pure, focused flavors of Gala apple, pear and lemon meringue while yeasty elements add richness and complexity.A long finish is enlivened by citrus and mineral notes.Alcohol 14.5%
Harvest
Harvest Date
September 12 – October 3
Harvest Brix
23.9° – 24.8°
Growing Season
2008 began with an exceptionally dry spring and early bud break. Frosts in April significantly lowered cluster counts. Weather stabilized and warmed through summer, with warmer temperatures continuing through harvest. A smaller crop of high quality fruit was able to ripen fully and evenly, developing an excellent balance of sugars and acid. Overall, the 2008 wines are bright and expressive with well-articulated flavors.
Winemaking
Hand-harvested grapes
Whole cluster, direct to press, cold
Barrel-fermented with indigenous yeasts; 5 months to completion
Concurrent native malolactic fermentation in barrels
