Release Sonoma Coast Chenin Blanc
2023

Winemaker’s Notes

Our small block of coastal Chenin Blanc is an experiment that seems to have taken on a life of its own—it sells out in record time with each release. The fruit and wine receive the same loving attention as any of our other bottlings—this is no afterthought. Compared to Chardonnay, the flavors lean more toward waxy apple and honey verses oily citrus and hazelnut, and the acidity is slightly higher. Additionally, we don’t use any new oak barrels —we want to preserve the wine’s crystalline purity. Our 2023 has both the highest acidity and most texture of all previous releases and offers outstanding aging potential if you have some degree of patience. We’re so confident of Chenin’s future in Sonoma that we’ve planted a further 900 vines on steep terraces at our Eddie’s Patch site, so stay tuned.

Bold and expressive aromas and flavors of Asian pear, white flowers, crushed stone, and beeswax. As the wine opens, distinct flinty minerals and apricot come forward alongside herbal touches. The waxy texture is rich and resonant, then offset by fresh grapefruit acidity. The quartz-like finish shimmers and pulsates with intensity. This compelling wine can be opened soon after release but after three years will be even more spectacular. Drink between 2025 and 2030.

Andy Smith