2011 Pine Ridge Chenin Blanc-Viognier

SKU #1085020 90 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

This delicious 65,000-case blend of 79% Chenin Blanc and 21% Viognier was aged in stainless steel. (I never knew there was this much Chenin Blanc grown in California!) It exhibits a big, sweet nose of ripe melons, white peaches and apricots as well as crisp acids and a crunchy, succulent mouthfeel. The result is a delightful white wine that could be served as an aperitif or with an assortment of sushi, sashimi or baked fish. Enjoy it over the next year. (10/ 2012)

Wine Enthusiast

This white blend has semisweet flavors of orange, pear, tropical fruit and honeysuckle. The spicy finish is crisp and clean, making it an easy match with Mexican, Thai and Indian fare. (8/ 2012)

K&L Notes

Ever-popular and always highly-rated--the 2010 received 90 points and high praise from Robert Parker as a *Top Value*--the Pine Ridge Chenin Blanc-Viognier is a unique blend of two varietals that aren't ordinarily found together, but marry quite well. While predominantly Chenin Blanc from the Clarksburg appellation on the Sacramento River Delta (79%), the 21% Lodi Viognier asserts itself by adding notes of flowers, spice and a glyceral texture. Like the 2010, the 2011 vintage is intensely aromatic, with scents of grapefruit, melon, passionfruit, honeysuckle and candied lemon. There's lots of juicy fruit on the palate, with flavors of baked pear and stone fruits, with candied notes. A hint of residual sugar makes for a lip-smacking finish while keeping Chenin's natural acidity in check. This is a great wine for entertaining, especially for large events, as it will pair with many dishes, from light to rich, as well as dishes featuring more exotic flavors. Try it with fun sushi rolls!