At San Pablo Bay, downstream from Sacramento, there is a special grape-growing region. Although chardonnay and pinot noir are grown in Clarksburg, its greatest reputation rests upon what many wine drinkers consider a lowly grape. Although chenin blanc produces the world famous, and anything but lowly, wines of Vouvray, most Americans simply shrug when chenin blanc is mentioned. Year after year, Dry Creek Vineyard makes a delectable version from Clarksburg grapes. And now, the eponymously named Clarksburg Wine Company is bottling three versions of this delectable produce.
2010 Chenin Blanc, Clarksburg Wine Company $16 srp
A burnished gold color. Honeyed nose of fresh-cut flowers and pear. There's a slate-like element that gives the bouquet a "cut," which increases liveliness. Fresh mouth feel with persistent clinging flavors that envelop your taste buds and cheeks. Melon begins the flavors turning to lemon zing and a brisk steeliness on the finish that cancels out any cloyingness from its lightly sweet profile. (1% residual sugar.) Terrific for sipping or to accompany a creamed chicken dish or poached salmon. Don't serve too cold! Drink now-2015.
89/100 points
Comments (3)
Comment FeedKathleen's inquiry
Arturo Ciompi 218 days ago
Chenin Blanc
temperature
Kathleen 218 days ago