Beskrivelse
The decision to release the Sauvignon Blanc is an exciting one at Montelena. This bottling is always the first wine of the vintage to be released and there’s a healthy sense of anticipation along with a reflection upon the previous harvest. The Sauvignon Blanc’s development in the cellar and bottle is a relatively short one at just six months; but it’s that recency that so robustly ties our actions with what we experience in the glass. The window of time is a microcosm of our winemaking and the enjoyment we experience is both the distillation and satisfaction of all of the decisions made. Perhaps, most importantly, that first sip inspires us to thoughtfully consider the growing season, as the vines begin to bloom. That potential certainly heightens our enjoyment in the moment and fuels our creativity for what’s to come.
VINTAGE WEATHER
Late rains in May drove vine growth well into the summer months. With plentiful leaves and healthy canopies, the grape berries were able to mature slowly and cohesively in mottled sunlight. As harvest approached both day and nighttime temperatures warmed consistently before moderating once again in early September; ideal for flavor and aroma expression.
NOSE PALATE FINISH
Incredibly ripe and floral, the wine opens with cascading aromas of tropical fruit, ripe peach, and melon. In time these give way to dried apricot and cinnamon before yielding to a well-defined albeit subtle pinch of orange blossom.
HARVEST DATES
September 4–11
ALCOHOL
14.2%
BLEND
81% Sauvignon Blanc 19% Semillon
Whereas the nose leans ripe, the palate embodies traditional varietal elements with plenty of bright acid, fresh grapefruit and flint to experience. Lively and fresh, the citrus seems to linger the most along with understated notes
of lemongrass and Asian pear.
Technical Information
BARREL AGING
6 months in French oak and Acacia
BOTTLING DATE
March 2020
