GRGICH HILLS
Fumé Blanc
2011
- Organic
About this winery
Grgich Hills Estate Winery, nestled in the heart of Napa Valley, holds a storied history marked by excellence and innovation. Founded in 1977 by Miljenko "Mike" Grgich and Austin Hills, it quickly became renowned for its commitment to crafting premium wines. Mike Grgich, a Croatian immigrant and celebrated winemaker, gained international acclaim when the Chardonnay he crafted for Chateau Montelena won the 1976 Paris Tasting, a watershed moment for American wines. Located in Rutherford, Grgich...
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Product notes
For the third year in a row, Napa Valley received only two-thirds of its average rainfall, which reduced crop levels somewhat. Spring was essentially frost-free and a relatively cool summer with no drastic heat surges brought smooth, even grape development. Just before harvest a few days of heat spikes ensured perfect ripeness when we picked in the first days of September.
Production notes
About 80% of our Sauvignon Blanc is planted to the Musque clone, which provides elegant floral aromatics. We fermented 80% of the grapes in previously used small French oak casks, called foudres, using only naturally-occurring yeasts. We then aged the wine six months on its lees (the spent yeast). These techniques add body while showcasing the wonderful fruit, mat masking it behind new oak.
Tasting notes
This 100% Sauvignon Blanc was made from grapes that were certified organic and Biodynamic at our cool American Canyon and Carneros vineyards, not far from the San Francisco Bay. The wine's crisp, elegant flavors of passion fruit, lemon grass and a hint of minerality at the end of the long finish are perfect with a green salad topped by Chevre cheese, grilled seafood or sauteed chicken breast.