2021 Sparkling Chenin Blanc, Ernesto Wickenden Vineyard

Billy's Wine Notes:

Made from our beloved Ernesto Wickenden Vineyard old vine Chenin Blanc, it exudes notes of lemon zest, quince, Asian pear and striking minerality. This sparkling is crisp and light with very fine bubbles, and would pair well with any festive faire. It is an especially stunning pairing with American caviar, oysters on the half shell, crab cakes, and of course holiday turkey.

 

"This bottle is further proof that the Santa Maria Valley, kissed constantly by maritime breezes, is a prime spot for high- quality sparkling wine. Winemaker David Whitehair taps one of the Foxen brand's estate vineyards, Ernesto Wickenden, for this wine, which is home to three acres of chenin blanc, planted back in 1966. The acidity in this bubbly rings beautifully - it's refreshing, bouncy, and peppy. But the old vine angle here adds a wonderful depth (even in the wine's youth) with layered apple and pear flavors, lemon rind essence, and hints of of fig. Whole cluster-pressed, and fermented in stainless steel tanks, it spent 14 months in tirage. The result is a lovely wine to sip throughout the afternoon or to pour for a light meal." - 805 Living - Sparklers That Shine, by Gabe Saglie