2012 Vineyard 29 Sauvignon Blanc
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Tasting notes
(14.8% alcohol; 100% sauvignon blanc): Palish yellow. Not as penetrating as the 2011 version but more complex, offering scents of pineapple, honeysuckle and white flowers. Suave, silky and pliant, in a distinctly elegant, airy style, showing fresh flavors of citrus fruits and white flowers. Winemaker Philippe Melka stirs the lees monthly for at least a year and blocks the malolactic fermentation. (He ages this wine for 20 months in 100% lightly toasted new French oak.) This vineyard is planted on volcanic rock on the hillside above the winery on Highway 29 north of St. Helena, and thus avoids the hot afternoon sun. Slated to be bottled in June.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Melon, white flowers, anise and Chamomile are some of the many notes that emerge from the 2012 Sauvignon Blanc 29 Estate. Rich, textured and voluptuous to the core, the 2012 captures the essence of this inviting, generous vintage. Expressive, varietal notes take on greater prominence on the finish.
The 2012 Sauvignon Blanc 29 Estate ratchets up the level of intensity with lots of Thai lemon grass, caramelized apricots, honeysuckle and citrus characteristics. The wine is medium-bodied, juicy, succulent and impressive. It should drink nicely for 3-4 years, possibly longer. The two estate vineyards of Vineyard 29, the 29 Estate and further north the Aida, are owned by Chuck and Anne McMinn. It’s a shame they don’t make more than 100-160 or so cases of their 100% Sauvignon Blanc fermented in 100% new French oak because it is so delicious. Vineyard 29 also produces a reasonably priced Napa Valley cuvee that showcases the valley’s ripe, rich Cabernet Sauvignon fruit, but does not require a line of credit to purchase. Tel. (707) 963-9292
The 2012 Sauvignon Blanc 29 Estate is a gorgeous wine that shows how Sauvignon can develop over time when made with care. Tangerine oil, hazelnut, white truffle, flowers, tropical fruit and a kiss of French oak fill in the layers nicely. A light touch of reduction adds character and also works well with this rich style. The 2012 is deep, textured and quite intriguing. This is impressive, but drink it up.