2018 Sonoma County "The Derivative" White Wine
65% Sonoma Valley Semillon, Rossi Ranch
25% Sonoma Valley and Russian River Valley Muscadelle, Pagani and Mancini Ranches
9% Russian River Valley Colombard, Mancini Ranch
1% Russian River Valley Palomino, Mancini Ranch
With the Semillon at Rossi Ranch now in full production, our Derivative is back to the style of some of our favorite earlier vintages. Think 2011, 2012, and 2013, when Semillon was the dominant variety. The Semillon was fermented in 57% older, neutral oak and 43% stainless steel while the Pagani Muscadelle and Mancini mixed whites were fermented and aged purely in stainless steel. No malolactic fermentation to preserve freshness and acidity. Lightly fined with bentonite (clay) and filtered at bottling.
Tasting Note:
Pale straw-yellow. Fragrant, intense aromas of Honeydew melon, lemon curd, dry grass, and a slight suggestion of pineapple and clove. Medium-full bodied with an incredibly smooth mouthfeel, flavors of Meyer lemon, green almond, and a touch of quinine build through the lip-smacking finish. While possessing plenty of verve and cut, this year’s rendition seems a bit more opulent and fruit-driven than the last couple of vintages, despite the alcohol level being the same. Enjoy from release through 2026. (MRO - 07/10/20)