Greenwood Ridge Vineyards

This Sauvignon Blanc always fools me. Because of where I live (in Anderson Valley), I run into it at parties and on people’s tables. I always enjoy it. Then it found its way into my blind tasting program this month and I’m wondering what the heck it is. Only when the wrappers came off did I remember: it’s got a stealth 20 percent Semillon in it. That makes it more French than most American Sauvignon Blanc (fives months in French oak only adds to that impression). Which is to say, it’s a bit fleshier, rounder, and sleeker.

That doesn’t mean it lacks refreshment. The aromas are thickly floral in a good way, and crisp apple notes are balanced with sweeter honey, rose oil and lychee. This whole mélange comes through in the flavors as well, there's nice texture to enliven the palate, and the acid kicks in on the late side to juice things up for a clean reprise of the aromas. If America had more respect for good Sauvignon Blanc, this wine would be a lot better known.

Reviewed July 25, 2007 by Thom Elkjer.