tangent Winery

Most of the Tangent wines are made to highlight an individual white grape variety, but Ecclestone is a blend of the brand’s varietal lineup – and then some. The 2006 version is dominated by Pinot Gris and Viognier, along with some Riesling and small amounts of Pinot Blanc, Orange Muscat and Albariño. As new grape varieties become available – Grüner Veltliner and Grenache Blanc, for example, have been planted for Tangent – winemaker Christian Roguenant will consider adding those to the Ecclestone blend. As the press materials say, “There are no limits here – if it’s white and interesting, he’ll consider it.”

Like the other Tangent wines, the Ecclestone spends no time in oak, nor does it undergo malolactic fermentation, so it’s very fresh and fragrant. The wine displays fleshy flavors of white peach and citrus, an intriguing spicy note and a long, racy finish. Roguenant suggests drinking Ecclestone, which is priced at $20, with spicy Thai or Mexican food. I think I’d prefer it with a nice piece of grilled halibut, sautéed crabcakes or some barbecued oysters.

Reviewed August 29, 2007 by Laurie Daniel.