We are very proud and excited to release our third white Rhone blend. This wine has become a darling among white wine drinkers and all our Aesop fans. It is a field blend of three unique varieties which all come from the Rhone valley of southern France. Grown in the famous Dry Creek Valley of Sonoma County, these white grapes are popping with fresh acidity and bold fruit characters.
Growing conditions were ideal at the start of 2021, with mild temperatures that led to evenly developed clusters. The low winter rainfall resulted in smaller berries with concentrated flavors, then, following an early budbreak and warm summer, harvest kicked off in early August. We know that you will enjoy these wines that express the promise anticipated by the ideal conditions of the early growing season. The grapes for this wine were all picked separately by varietal from their respected blocks and combined in the press as whole clusters. The grapes were lightly squeezed until the color, fruit profile and acidity were to the winemakers liking.
It was fermented in stainless-steel barrels to enhance the fruit profile and one new French oak “Cigar” barrel (a long skinny shaped barrels designed for sur lees ageing) to add body and mouth feel. The juice was kept cold at 54 degrees Fahrenheit for a slow fermentation which allowed the fruit flavors to remain forward on the palate. A commercial yeast strain was used to enhance the fruit characters. Made in very small quantities for the spring and summer seasons ahead, this wine by winemaker Tres Goetting is made from 35% Grenache Blanc, 34% Bourboulenc and 31% Picpoul.
This is a unique dry wine to keep on hand, chilled, for whenever the moment strikes you: Picnics, beach outings, wine socials or diner pairings. You can’t lose! Serve with oysters, charcuterie, cheeses, light meals of fish or fowl or simply sip on its own. A kaleidoscope of aromas explode from the glass revealing hints of dried apricots, honey dew, pear, green apple, guava, and wet stone. The wine takes us on a journey as it evolves and opens with oxygen contact. The flavors are savory and exotic and balanced with fresh mouthwatering acidity.