91 points, Wine Enthusiast
Viognier is the noble white variety of France’s Northern Rhône, responsible for the rare and pricey Condrieu from the region. Despite a surge in its popularity in California in the 1990s, there is still relatively little Viognier planted here. Estate grown since 2004. The nose shows bold white peach and pear fragrances with lovely tropical fruit nuances.
The ’16 Sarah’s Vineyard Viognier demonstrates the grape’s uniqueness and appeal: bold, perfumed white peach and pear fragrances with lovely tropical fruit nuances. On the palate, you’ll find citrus blossoms and lemongrass, with a touch of minerality on the finish. Pair with swordfish with a beurre blanc sauce or a cauliflower / goat cheese soufflé.
We hand-harvested and whole cluster pressed the Viognier fruit on the home ranch in mid-Sepetember of 2016. Fermentation began using yeast “Rhone 4600” in neutral French oak barrels. After the barrel fermentation, the wine was matured sur lie in the same neutral oak cooperage for ten months, with bâtonage stirrings every two weeks.
Appellation: Santa Clara Valley
Vineyard: Sarah's Estate
Grower: Tim Slater
Harvest Date: Mid September 2016
Alcohol: 14.1
Cooperage: Neutral French oak, 10 months
Production: 300
