Monday, February 23, 2009

Ojai McGinley Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2007

I am not a huge fan of most American Sauv Blancs - they tend to either be over-oaked, dull, and lifeless, or simplistic and unbalanced. This particular wine, however, (which was formerly known as Westerly Vineyard), is a great exception.

From one of the Santa Ynez Valley's most consistent producers, this Sauv Blanc had a very expressive nose of apple, grapefruit and passionfruit. But the extensive and deep palate is where the true stand-out qualities of Ojai's underappreciated little Sauvignon shine. Smooth, minerally, and truly citrus-tastic - this has brighter minerality and acidity than New Zealand Sauv Blanc's, but more fruit than a Loire Sauvignon and maybe a very tiny touch of oak. It's really quite a remarkable combination of elements and any Sauvignon Blanc lover absolutely must taste this wine. A personal favourite and highly recommended.

Excellent
$29 US at various online stores

No comments: