2012 Sonoma County "The Derivative" White Wine
54% Sonoma Valley Semillon, Monte Rosso Vineyard
30% Sonoma Valley Muscadelle, Pagani Ranch
16% Russian River Valley Palomino, Saitone Ranch
Although just our third release, The Derivative has quickly become one of my favorite wines of our portfolio. It’s a wine that I enjoy year round and it seems to work well with a wide variety of dishes, from fish to chicken to pork. We continue to decrease the new oak in this wine. The Muscadelle was fermented in all stainless steel. The Palomino was fermented in 75% stainless steel and 25% new oak. The Semillon was fermented in all oak but only 22% new. Malolactic fermentation was prevented to preserve acidity and freshness.
Tasting Note:
Pale straw-yellow. Perfumed aromas of lemon, quince, beeswax, and lanolin. A dichotomous wine, it enters the mouth surprisingly full-bodied (no doubt the Semillon speaking) but laser-like acidity cuts the richness and keeps the palate fresh and invigorated. This rendition reminds me of a hypothetical blend of the 2010 and 2011. Easily the best we’ve made so far. With only three vintages under our belt, it’s hard to predict the aging curve on this wine. (But hey, that’s why we have a drinkability chart!) Certainly from release until 2019 would be a safe bet. (MRO – 07/18/14)