2018 Crescere "Ritchie Vineyard" Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc

Until recently, I knew nothing of Crescere wines. But when someone sends me samples of an old vine, Ritchie vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, with 98 points and comparisons to Haut-Brion Blanc...I sit up and start paying attention. The luxurious, heavy bottle is fitting for the powerful and concentrated wine inside. White flowers on the nose, struck flint, yellow plum, nectarine, lemon curd, wet stone and cut herbs. The palate shows much of the same, ranging from riper, golden stone fruit characters to more mouthwatering, zesty citrus elements, all given another layer of depth by the subtle oak, and lees derived texture. The finish is powerful and persistent as is common for this heralded planting. Despite the wines voluminous expression and effusive nature, the core of mineral infused acidity keeps everything under tension and nicely focused. It's a show stopping wine, and a worthy rendition of this world-class vineyard. Great stuff!