Bernardus Griva Sauvignon Blanc 2016
Michael Griva's vineyard - reportedly planted specifically for Carmel Valley's Bernardus - contains Sauvignon Blanc grapes, the aromatic Musqué clone, and a small section of Sémillon grapes. The sandy, stone-laden soil drains very well and provides a great place for the fruit to soak up enough sun to ripen to great varietal expression. It's mainly a Sauvignon Blanc, with the Sémillon providing just a 5% splash.
The Bernardus Griva was fermented in steel tanks, then aged several months in large neutral French oak barrels. Alcohol is restrained, at 13.9% abv and the wine retails for $30.
This is a beautiful California Sauvignon Blanc. It has a wonderful nose that offers more salinity than grassiness. Citrus and minerals are also in play. On the palate, the savory herbal flavors get the citrus treatment, too. Zippy acidity brings a lively food friendliness, so pair it with shellfish, salads or spinach.
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