Cliff Lede, Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley, California 2019

85% Sauvignon Blanc, 12% Sémillon, 3% Sauvignon Vert

This elegant and lively wine from Cliff Lede opens with a feast of ambrosial lemon curd, elderflower, bosc pear flesh, and apricots aromas. There is also delightful array of toasty brioche, coconut, and orange blossom notes reveling amongst the upper register. A beautifully bright acidity leads the entry with a nectar of citrusy key lime and grapefruit, followed nicely with pineapple, and honeydew melon flavors. The grand finish flourishes with pleasurable hints of marzipan, oyster shell, honeycrisp apple, fresh mint, and green tea.

The primary vineyard source, located in eastern Rutherford, is home to old vines planted to a heritage Musqué clone and Sémillon, providing density, richness, and citrus notes. Two other old-vine vineyards, both in Calistoga, contribute to the blend, one planted to Sauvignon Blanc and the other to Sémillon. A vineyard in Chiles Valley, a small pocket in eastern Napa County, adds complexity with a few tons of Sauvignon Vert.