~ Inaugural Release ~

2004 Vineyard 29 Sauvignon Blanc

Harvest Date:            August 27 – September 3, 2004

Barrel Age:                20 months in French Oak, 100% new

Cooperage:               Saury

Bottling Date:            April 28, 2006

Alcohol:                    14.4%

Release Date:            November 2006

Vineyard 29 is raising the bar for California’s Sauvignon Blanc, adding an authentic Bordeaux-styled Sauvignon Blanc to our portfolio. Grown on the hillside of our estate vineyard and vinified by Philippe Melka using techniques he developed at Haut Brion our Blanc, undergoes no malolactic fermentation and spends 20 months in new French Saury “immersion” barrels (water bent and wet toasted).

The color is of brilliant golden native grasses. Bright honeysuckle aromas greet the nose and are immediately followed by a mélange of ripe stone fruits, citrus zest and wet stone.  Exotic tropical fruits, including guava and papaya, as well as sweet spices of clove and nutmeg add layers of complexity, framed with subtle aromas of coconut meat, heavy cream and marzipan.

Fresh and zesty on the entry, Meyer lemon and Asian pears dominate. The wine is full and soft across the palate showing balanced weight, a crisp acid back bone, and serious viscosity similar to top white Burgundies.  Musk melons finish on the palate accompanied by sweet toasty almond flavors. Our Sauvignon Blanc will continue to develop and mature for 7-8 years.

Cases produced:            118                            Retail price:          $100 ~ 750ml