A combination of fruit from the very first western corridor vineyard grafted over to Viognier by Alban in 1986 and some of his estate Edna Valley fruit (which he began producing in 1993). A new vineyard, which will play a more prominent role in subsequent vintages brings deep stone fruit and restrained tropical notes to the blend. More forward fruitiness than the Estate Viognier, this wine should be consumed within 3 years of its vintage for those looking for the primary stone fruit and pear notes, which Viognier can convey. Usually 25% barrel fermented in a combination of new and used French oak; 75% fermented in tank. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. 1800 cases produced. This may be slightly cloudy.
Aromatic and floral. Forward and fruity with notes of lychee, pear and stone fruit. North County fruit brings rich texture and body while estate fruit adds floral notes, minerals and balancing acidity. It is 25% barrel fermented in a mixture of new and used French oak. This is an intense, full-bodied style with considerable weight, luscious and delicious.
Looking first at the 2021 Viognier Central Coast (which is released under the Central Coast label but nevertheless comes all from the estate in Edna Valley), it has a vivid gold hue as well as a great nose of crushed citrus, honeysuckle, and assorted white flower and acacia notes. Medium-bodied, seamless, and elegant, with just a kiss of background toast and brioche, it's a terrific expression of the variety and well worth seeking out.
- 92 Jeb Dunnuck
