This is a delightful, dry white that is immensely drinkable. The fresh fruit character of green apple, pear and nuances of apricot broadens on the palate.
Harvested with low sugar and high acidity, the crisp Pinot Gris portion of the blend supplies the energy, while the Pinot Blanc delivers minerality and depth. The majority of Pinot Gris is harvested from Sierra Madre Vineyard. The Pinot Blanc portion is from Bien Nacido Vineyard. Both had small grapes on small clusters meaning more skin in the skin to fruit ratio. More skin, more flavor.
All the Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc is harvested by hand, whole-cluster pressed and barrel-fermented in neutral French oak. Malolactic fermentation is allowed to complete. This softens the piercing acid of the Pinot Gris and gives the wine some richness. The wine is sulfured and rests sur lie until late Spring. After racking and processing, the wine is returned to barrel for a further 8 months before bottling.
The minerality and acidity make this a great wine for shellfish of any kind, and delightful with roast chicken, turkey or pastas with a light béchamel sauce. Also great with Thai cuisine.
Type: White Wine
Style: Rich and Textured White
Country: USA
Region: Santa Barbara County
Blend: Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc
Vintage: 2022
ABV: 13.5%
Size: 75cl
Farming: Sustainable
Winemaking: Conventional
Vegan: Not certified