Saracina Sauvignon Blanc 2007

Vintage and Release Information

Mendocino County 2007
Released January 2, 2009
Production of 1254 cases

Varietal Composition

100% Sauvignon Blanc

Technical Data

14.1% alcohol by volume
0.72 gm/100 ml titratable acidity
pH 3.16
Bottled June 5, 2008

Vineyards

The grapes were sourced from four highly individualistic, 100% organically farmed Mendocino County vineyards representing the best of the appellation:  Our estate vineyards, with 30-year-old rootstock and Kathleen's Vineyard cuttings, give the wine suppleness and weight; our cool climate Kathleen's Vineyard, which was planted 45 years ago at the home ranch by Owner John Fetzer, produces grapes with high natural acidity and intense minerality; a nearby vineyard in the benchlands yields grapes with stone fruit overtones and a Potter Valley vineyard provides a small amount of Sauvignon Musque, which lends lovely floral aromatics and liveliness to the mouthfeel.

Harvest

The year 2007 was an excellent year for Sauvignon Blanc, with harvest beginning on September 4 and ending on September 18.  Sugars ranged between 22.7 and 23.4, and pH and acidity were ideal.  Tasting the fabulous stone fruit, grapefruit and floral flavors in the grapes, it was evident it would be a superb white wine vintage. 

Winemaking and Cooperage

The grapes are hand-picked, whole cluster pressed, and barrel fermented with native yeast, half in small, three-year-old Burgundian barrels and half in small stainless steel barrels.  The wine undergoes no malolactic fermentation and is aged eight months sur lie with monthly batonnage.  No pre-bottling filtration.

Winemaker

Alex MacGregor

Consulting Winemaker

David Ramey

Winemaker's Comments

Our 2007 Sauvignon Blanc has aromas of lemongrass, quince, lime zest and wet stone.  The palate is a perfect balancing act between the weight of extended lees contact and fresh, vibrant acidity; the long, mouthwatering finish underscores the strength of this great vintage.