Nose
The 2003 Blanc de Noirs bursts with a bright aromatic mixture of white peach, star fruit, toasted coconut and just roasted almonds. With age, its character will evolve with baked fruit and caramelized pastry tones.
Palate
On the palate, it is smooth and polished while also zesty and quenching. It tastes of nectarines, peaches, white cherries and really captures the beauty of just ripened fruit. This wine has a great balance between acidity and fruit that will gain pleasing complexity over the course of time.
Growing Conditions
Source: 49% Napa County, 35% Mendocino County, 16% Sonoma County
Winemaking
Making a white wine from a red grape requires great care—handpicked fruit, early morning harvest, optimal fruit maturity and delicate pressing. A balance of bright flavors, crisp acidity and minimal tannins is achieved. Over two years of yeast contact in the bottle knits all the elements together in a mature, toasty style.
Food Pairing
The Blanc de Noirs is especially appealing with salmon, sea bass, lighter meats such as veal, duck and pork tenderloin, caviar, risotto with chanterelles and vegetables, or with cheese fondue.
