Chenin Blanc Viognier 2021

Located in California's Napa Valley, Pine Ridge Estate cultivates this wine in vineyards spread between the cooler climate of Clarksburg and the sunnier slopes of Napa Valley. The Chenin Blanc parcels come primarily from the alluvial plains near the Sacramento Delta, while the Viognier is sourced from slightly higher elevations, benefiting from a significant temperature range. This diversity of terroirs, characterized by well-drained loamy and clay-sand soils, results in a balance of aromatic freshness, fruit ripeness, and vibrancy on the palate.

The Chenin Blanc and Viognier grapes are harvested separately at optimal ripeness, then gently pressed before careful settling. The musts are then fermented at low temperatures in stainless steel tanks to preserve aromatic freshness and fruit intensity. Aging takes place primarily in stainless steel tanks, on fine lees, with gentle pump-overs to enhance volume on the palate while maintaining a vibrant and luminous fruit expression, without a pronounced oak influence.

This wine reveals notes of white peach , ripe apricot , and juicy pear , complemented by floral touches of honeysuckle and orange blossom , as well as delicate citrus accents and a subtly spicy nuance. The palate is ample and supple, supported by a silky texture , a lively acidity that lengthens the tasting, and a fresh, persistent finish , leaving a harmonious and thirst-quenching impression.

In the United States, 90% of the wine produced comes from California. It was the influx of gold prospectors to California that revitalized the Californian wine industry in the mid-19th century, particularly in the Sonoma and Napa regions. At the beginning of the 20th century, there were 800 wineries. From 1919 to 1933, Prohibition decimated the vast majority of the Californian wine industry, so that by 1933, only 140 wineries remained. It wasn't until 1960 that the wine industry began to recover from Prohibition, and California was primarily known for producing fortified wines (in the style of Port). It was also in the 1960s that some of the most famous wineries were established (Mondavi, Heitz Wine Cellars, Stag's Leap Wine Cellars, etc.). In 1976, a landmark event took place: the legendary tasting competition better known as the "Judgment of Paris." It pitted the greatest French wines against the new American upstarts. On May 24th, an unexpected result shook the wine world, as, to everyone's surprise, the United States emerged victorious. This competition, however, remains relatively unknown to the general public. Today, there is no doubt that the United States produces great wines. While California largely dominates the reputation of American wines with its excellent Zinfandels, the state of Oregon produces some of the best Pinot Noir in the world, and Washington State offers excellent Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon.