Nose
The 2011 Somerston Sauvignon Blanc is our fourth release of this wine. Yields of Sauvignon Blanc and Sauvignon Musque were perfect, resulting in a wine that displays all the characteristics that we expect from this great vineyard site. The mineral nose shows bright tropical notes of mango, grape- fruit and citrus.
Palate
While on the palate, delicious flavors of poached pear, vanillin and grilled citrus fruit are highlighted by light oak texture and a long, persistent finish.
Growing Conditions
What began with a wet winter and spring continued with rainfall into mid-June and set the stage for a long, cooler-than-average growing season with a later-than-average harvest beset with autumn rainstorms. Few high heat events occurred this year, but growers managed more open vine canopies to ensure sunlight, warmth and good air circulation around the grape clusters.
Winemaking
The small yellow clusters were picked in the early morning, whole-cluster pressed and fermented in 40% new French oak and 60% neutral French oak. The wine was barrel aged sur lie for six months with two stirrings per month, and bottled in December 2012.
Aging
Six months
