In the early 1990s, Pine Ridge crafted this unusual and delectable blend as an experimental bottling, creating one of our most beloved and popular wines.  This unique marriage of two varietals that would never share the same bottle in their native France unites the crisp, honeyed fruit of Chenin Blanc with the plush body, light floral aromas and juicy stone fruit notes of Viognier, for a wine that is both sophisticated and easy to enjoy .

THE WINE: Chenin Blanc has long been the core of this blend and is sourced from the Clarksburg appellation nestled in the Sacramento River Delta.  The grapes were harvested at low sugar levels to ensure a bright fruit character and low alcohol in the finished wine, in contrast to the Viognier, from Lodi, which was picked at 24 degrees Brix to capture the floral and spicy nature as well as the viscosity of this grape.  After crushing and blending the press wine with free run juice to increase palate weight, the juice was inoculated with two special yeast strains selected to maintain the fruity characters and then fermented cold.  The wine was bottled without any oak influence to retain the vibrant and refreshing profile. 

TASTING NOTES: Our 2009 bottling of this distinctive blend presents a fragrant bouquet of fresh fruit notes including Asian pear, pomelo and lychee, touched with a delicate floral layer of jasmine blossom and kaffir lime leaf.  On the palate, enjoy a slightly off-dry harmony of fruit flavors including honeydew melon, ruby red grapefruit, juicy white peach and crisp golden apple.  Bright acidity and a clean, refreshing finish round out this wonderfully radiant and delightful wine.

FOOD PAIRINGS: With its balanced acidity, this versatile wine pairs well with a number of dishes, from light salads to seafood to, most notably, foods with a hint of spiciness - its subtle sweetness provides balance alongside a touch of heat.  Try Chenin Blanc-Viognier with a flavorful Thai curry or a sushi dish, such as a spicy tuna roll, or seared halibut.

Varietal:  80% Chenin Blanc, 20% Viognier
Alcohol:  11.8%
Release Date:  June 1, 2010
Suggested retail price: $14.00


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