2010 DEWN Roussanne Viognier

$24.00 per bottle / $259.20 per case
$20.40 per bottle / $230.40 per case (Members)

In 2010 we went afield from the 100% viognier bottlings of the last few years, and indeed this wine has a slight preponderance of roussanne, an aromatic white Rhône grape named for the russet or roux color of its ripe skins. This grape contributes acidity and lively herbal notes to the blend, while the viognier brings heady aromas of stone fruits and blossoms. The result is balanced, rich, and silky.

The wine is clear, pale yellow with a faint greenish cast, and when swirled it offers a perfume of stone fruit, Asian pear, laurel leaf, and fresh straw. When very cold, the herbal elements of the blend predominate, but as it warms in the glass the apricot and peach blossom open. Medium bodied with lush apricot, ripe peach, pear, green tea, and quince on the palate, it has a lovely cleansing finish.

The wine’s heft stands up to rich, flavorful dishes, including cream or butter-based sauces and lively seasonings. Serve with butternut squash ravioli, roasted root vegetables, tagine or curry, shellfish (particularly lobster or crab), or warm goat cheese salad.

Vital Statistics
Appellation: Central Coast
Vineyard: Beeswax (roussanne), Bien Nacido (viognier)
Blend: 53% roussanne, 47% viognier
Alcohol by Volume: 12.8%
Production: 507 cases
Cellaring: 2-5 years from release (Aug. 2011)