Gold Medal - 2009 Sonoma County Fair
After a cool, rainy spring, summertime has finally arrived here in Sonoma County, and as the thermometer passes 90 degrees, our thoughts naturally turn from red to white wine. Sonoma County has developed a reputation for Chardonnay, and while there is no doubt that Sonoma County is producing some world class Chard, it also tends to be expensive, and can be a little too full-bodied for warm weather. Fortunately, Sonoma County’s diverse microclimates mean that other varieties flourish here as well. Sauvignon Blanc from Sonoma County has recently begun to garner serious critical praise, and excellent examples are springing up throughout the county. One such Sauvignon Blanc, the 2008 from La Czar Vineyards recently crossed our desk, and we couldn’t wait to share it with our customers. And that was before we found that we would be able to offer it an incredible bargain price of just $18. This is definitely one to keep in the fridge at all times this summer!
The 2008 La Czar Sauvignon Blanc is sourced from a hillside vineyard in the Sonoma Mountain AVA. This area is characterized by plenty of sunshine, but with the elevation to keep the temperatures cool. The result is a Sauvignon Blanc with plenty of fruit and varietal character. Pale straw in color, the nose shows classic Sauv Blanc aromas of grapefruit, lemon, fresh cut grass, and white pepper. The palate is loaded with key lime, lemon, orange peel, apple, and just a hint of grass. Nice acid keeps the wine in balance, with a long finish that gives a faint impression of sweetness. At just 13.5% alcohol, this is Sauvignon Blanc in a restrained, classic style that makes it perfect for sipping before dinner on a hot day, at an afternoon BBQ, or with fresh oysters. Don’t miss out on the chance to stock up on Sauv Blanc from an up and coming producer at an unbeatable price.
COMPOSITION: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
HARVEST DATE: September 14, 2008
APPELLATION: Sonoma Mountain
BRIX: 23.2
TOTAL CASES: 526
pH at BOTTLING: 3.38
BOTTLE SIZE: 750ml
TA at BOTTLING: 7.31
ALCOHOL: 13.5%
BOTTLING DATE: April 14, 2009
93 Points, Wine Enthusiast
Dark fruit aromas of black raspberry, blackberry and black cherry steer the aromatics backed by baking spices, anise and lavender. A touch of Syrah to add tannin and depth. On the palate, black cherry and blackberry preserve shine through rounded out by herbs de Provence, dark chocolate and vanilla. A gorgeous expressive wine!
