WINEMAKER NOTES

Like Trousseau Gris, Chenin is a Heritage white grape that was once widely planted in CA. From over 2000 acres of Chenin planted in Napa in the 1980’s, there are now only 16 acres! Finding it is difficult, but rewarding.

This is our sixth bottling of Chenin Blanc from a small vineyard in St. Helena. It was picked in early September 2019, and was fermented and aged sur lie in used French Oak barrels for a total of 10 months. The 2019 is a gorgeous little wine; give it time (much like a red wine) to open in your glass! In fact, a decant is very helpful. This wine begins in a shy place, but with some swirling and time, it blossoms into a radiant and floral masterpiece. Our minds are brought to the inspiring Chenins from the Loire valley that we love to “research.” Relaxed notes of cream, clove and peach are mixed with delicate tones of white jasmine. The 2019 Chenin is confident and perfumed; complex and easy to savor.