Here are some of Sonoma Valley’s coolest Sauvignon Blancs.
Among the many joys of summer in Sonoma Valley is an abundance of crisp, cool Sauvignon Blancs. So we thought we’d share a few of our favorites. These are the SB’s that show the more expressive side of the varietal. And, of course, this is just a small sampling. So be sure to try these and a few others. There’s no better way to chill on a warm, late summer evening.
ENVOLVE WINERY
The story of Envolve is about three boys growing up together in Sonoma Valley, going their separate ways, then coming back to their roots. Among the select handful of incredible wines they craft is a 2012 Sonoma Valley Sauvignon Blanc – famously known as the Patio Pounder (for reasons you’ll have to ask them about.) Grown in highly volcanic soils, fermented in 100% stainless steel, with just a touch (8%) of Muscat Canelli blended in, this Sauv Blanc offers aromas of orange and zest and pink grapefruit. It’s lively on the palate, but has a well-rounded mouthfeel and a harmonious finish.
envolvewinery.com
MACLEOD FAMILY VINEYARDS
George MacLeod is a Sonoma Valley legend. What started as a “retirement project run amock” almost 30 years ago has grown into a showcase for some of the Valley’s best wines. The MacLeod Family’s Indian Springs Ranch in the Sonoma Valley AVA has lean, intensely rocky, shallow hillside soils and a mild climate. Ideal conditions for this classic varietal. In fact, the vines planted here trace their roots back to cuttings from Chateau d’Yquem in Bordeaux. The 2013 Estate Sauvignon Blanc is clean, fresh and alive with crisp flavors of citrus, green apples and pineapple.
macleodfamilyvineyard.com
HAMEL FAMILY WINES
The Hamel Family has been making wines in Sonoma Valley since 2006, but they just opened their beautiful new winery this summer. A true family affair, Pam and George Hamel are giddy about the fact that three of their children have joined in the journey of producing world-class wines. The Hamel Family Wines 2013 Estate Sauvignon Blanc has a golden wheat color. Behind the initial bright fruit aromas are tones of flowers, wet stone and sea breeze. A verve and vibrancy on the palate is balanced by a layered richness derived in part from fermentation in French oak and aging sur lie. This wine is a bit of a rarity with only 228 cases produced.
hamelfamilywines.com
