J Rickards Sauvignon Blanc Alexander Valley 2010 - Sauvignon Blanc's quintessential varietal character is softened with the addition of 8% Semillon. Mouthwatering aromas of melon, citrus, jalapeno pepper and cut hay continue as flavors in the zippy, zesty mouth. Clean and refreshing! On the palate, vibrant flavors of citrus follow suit with the addition of gooseberry and a touch of minerality. The balanced, crisp acidity cleanses the palate and invites the complement of food.
Our Sauvignon Blanc is produced from grapes grown in the Croft Vineyard at the southern end of the Alexander Valley. The vineyard was planted at an elevation of 500 feet above the valley floor in a saddle that connects the Russian River AVA and the Alexander Valley AVA. This connection allows the cooling fog from the coast to penetrate early in the morning, cooling off the vines and extending hang time for the grapes. The hang time intensifies the flavors; the warm afternoons add ripening. This combination develops those intense aromatics, melon, and exotic fruit flavors while still preserving the crisp acidity that Sauvignon Blanc is known for. Jim and Alex were introduced to the vineyard in 2008. They were so impressed by the quality and flavors that came from this three-acre vineyard that they decided to use the grapes to make both this wine and a late-harvest dessert wine. -Winery
Awards:
Bronze Medal - 2011 San Francisco Chronicle International Wine Competition