BV Coastal Estates Sauvignon Blanc, California 07

Tasting Notes:
The 2007 Sauvignon Blanc teases the senses with a fragrant bouquet of passion fruit, kiwi, and gooseberry. Tropical fruit flavors focus the lithe and nimble mid-palate accentuated by bright grapefruit and flinty high notes. This marriage of fruit and lively acids lingers on the back of the tongue for a long, smooth finish. It is an enjoyable, strait-forward wine to enjoy as an aperitif with tapenades, charcuteries, and aged cheeses.

With roots in New Zealand, winemaker Jim Corkin aimed for the flavors and aromas he fondly remembered tasting in his homeland. He chose a long, cool fermentation in stainless steel to focus the tropical fruit and kiwi flavors while retaining bright acidity and inviting grapefruit highlights. Regular lees stirring was utilized to build body and tame the inherent “riotous” flavors, creating a well-balanced wine with a smooth fruit finish.

Vineyard Notes:
A majority of the grapes came from a vineyard in Lodi which grows on the eastern side of the AVA toward the Sierra foothills. The ground here is undulating and porous causing the infamously vigorous Sauvignon Blanc vines to “struggle,” a positive condition for vines which leads to intense fruit and focused flavors. The remaining grapes come from the Central Coast, which has distinctly cooler daytime temperatures, bringing forward the striking mineral, stone and citrus character.

Production Notes:
California

Winemaker Notes:
The 2007 growing season was textbook perfect. It began with lower-than-average winter rainfall and a warm spring that encouraged early budbreak. Moderate temperatures prevailed throughout the growing season for even ripening and development of good sugar-to-acid ratios. Fruit quality was enhanced by the long hang time and flavors were intense and juicy due to the low yields. Overall, grape quality was high with ripe, lush flavors balanced with lively acidity.