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Great Oaks Ranch is situated in a paradise
for Sauvignon Blanc. This eastern end of the Santa Ynez Valley
is graced with soils and a climate that allows this classic
white Bordeaux grape to fully ripen to physiological ripeness
and yet retain all the natural acidity that makes Sauvignon
Blanc such a vibrant wine. The east-west transverse nature
of the valley brings morning fog from the nearby Pacific
Ocean, which then retreats mid-morning. Sunny and warm days
then lead to cool evening temperatures. Superb Sauvignon
Blanc weather and place!
This micro-climate, combined with meticulous
farming at Great Oaks Ranch, and the selection of the aromatic
and intriguing
Musque clone of Sauvignon Blanc sets the stage for a wine
of character and distinction.
The 2008 Sauvignon Blanc strikes
a pose with a pale gold color that almost shimmers in the
glass with a swirl, which
unleashes an incredibly aromatic bouquet characteristic
of Sauvignon Musque. Tropical notes of guava and kiwi waft
from
the glass, and a first sip confirms the hedonistic nature
of this wine. On the palate, crisp apple and honeydew melon
then lead to summer pear and apricot, all intertwined with
hints of key lime pie. The texture of the wine is both
creamy and bright, the finish lingering. Beautifully balanced,
and
a wine that will pair well with fish or chicken, fresh
summer vegetables and spicy dishes.
| Release Date: |
Spring 2011 |
| Production: |
44 cases of 750ml bottles |
| Vineyard Location: |
Central-Eastern edge of the Santa Ynez Valley,
from a raised knoll in the block. North-South row orientation.
1,200 vines per acre. |
| Yield: |
Restricted to 3.0 tons per acres.
Harvested October 2008. |
| Varietal Composition |
100% Sauvignon Blanc. 100% Musque clone. |
| Fermentation: |
Spontaneous fermentation started in stainless
steel with native yeasts. Finished in neutral French Oak
barriques, sur-lie. |
| Alcohol: |
13.8% |
| pH: |
3.46 |
| TA |
6.78 g/L |
| Winemaker |
Andrew Murray |
| Winegrower/Proprietor |
Nancy and Michael Lippman |
Please click here
for a printable version of the winemaking and tasting notes. |
