Chenin Blanc, DuMOL, Sonoma Coast CA 2023

Winemaker's Notes

In our opinion, great Chenin should combine just-ripe fruit characters with a natural savory edge, and slightly waxy/honeyed richness underpinned by prominent acidity. When these elements are in harmony, the wine will be elevated beyond a simple everyday drinker. With low-vigor soils, a cool coastal climate, impeccable vine material, and sensitive farming, our MacIntyre Estate offers just that. This is one of our favorite wines of the entire 2022 vintage. The remarkable quality bodes well for the development of this grape variety in our region. It has lower acidity but more richness than the 2021 bottling, and the wine appears to have taken on the aromas and flavors of its environment – I swear it tastes like the honey produced by the hives positioned throughout the vineyard. 

Complex aromas and flavors of lime oil, sage, Thai basil and lemongrass. Passionfruit, sweet mint and beeswax notes flicker and fade. The wine is immensely textured - deep, oily and viscous – completely unique. As the palate expands its acidity draws out complex elements of flint, fresh herbs and saline notes and then finishes with the character of new spring honey. A remarkable wine. Serve at 55F and drink between summer 2024 and 2028.