2007 Sauvignon Blanc - Sonoma County / Redwood Ranch

90 points, Editor's Choice - Wine Enthusiast Magazine

GRAPE SOURCE

Redwood Ranch is located in the extreme lower end of Alexander Valley. This cool bench land area contains primarily Yolo sandy loam soils. The vines were planted in 1997 with 8ft. x 6ft vine spacing. Clone 1 was planted on a devigorating root-stock, chosen to help provide optimum exposure of the fruit to the sun. The quality of this fruit is a true expression of the commitment of the growers, Jim and Gail Reed.

WINEMAKING
Our Sauvignon Blanc juice is fermented slowly at very cold temperatures using a yeast strain (Zymaflore VL3) selected for its ability to act upon certain aroma precursors in Sauvignon Blanc, enhancing varietal aroma and flavor potential. When the fermentation approaches completion, approximately 20% of the juice is cold-transferred to finish fermenting in new French oak barrels. The wine in barrels is blended back with the stainless steel batches prior to any suggestion of oak character in the blended wine. This limited exposure to new barrels gives the wine richness and fullness to the mid-palate, while preserving the crisp citrus flavors of Sauvignon Blanc. With this vintage Gary Farrell Winery has decided to use screwcap as the preferred closure on its Sauvignon Blanc. "I want to deliver the best expression of our vineyards. I believe this closure captures the pure Sauvignon Blanc aromas and flavors and will deliver the best quality in the glass.” remarks Susan Reed.

WINEMAKER'S NOTES
The 2007 Sauvignon Blanc exhibits bright, forward aromas of ripe grapefruit, citrus zest and gooseberry. Flavors mirror the aromas, enhanced with hints of white peach, apricot, and honeydew. The wine has a heavenly mouthfeel, with a lingering finish that’s crisp and refreshing. While an ideal companion to cheese plates, shellfish, and cold vegetables, this wine will also stand up to rich, spicy Thai and fish dishes.

Bottled: December 5, 2007
Winemaker: Susan Reed
Varietal Composition: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol: 13.8%
Case Production: 3008
Acid/pH: 0.67/3.26
Released: March 1, 2008
Appellation: Sonoma County

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2006 Sauvignon Blanc - Sonoma County, Redwood Ranch
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