| Gainey Vineyard 2008 Sauvignon Blanc |
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| Winemaker’s Notes 2008 was a topsy-turvy vintage in Santa Ynez Valley, with extensive spring frosts, inclement weather in May during vine bloom, and a heat wave during grape set in June significantly stressing the vines. Mother Nature mellowed out in late July and August, but September and October again saw alternating periods of warm and cool weather, with another, shorter bout of frost early Ocotber. The result of all this craziness? A very light crop that produced beautifully structured wines with a laser-like fruit focus and clarity. Gainey Vineyrd's 2008 Sauvignon Blanc, produced from the Gainey Family's Home Ranch in eastern Santa Ynez Valley, is a good example. It boasts classic varietal aromas of lemongrass, honeydew melon and grapefruit, but with more spiciness and pungency than in past vintages. On the sleek, streamlined palate, spicy grapefruit and melon flavors dominate, shot through with a vein of minerality reminiscent of sauvignon blancs from the Loire Valley. The finish is long and bright with a pink grapefruit-like fruitiness balanced by crisp acidity and refreshing mineral tones. While this zesty sauvignon blanc is delightful now, its tightly knit structure and deep reserves of fruit suggest it will develop beautifully in bottle over the next several years. June 2009 |