- CRITICAL REVIEWS
- WINEMAKER NOTES
Jeb Dunnuck
2022 Eisele Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley, USA
WINEGROWING INFORMATION
The dormancy period of 2022 is remembered for its extremely low cumulative rainfall, comparable to 2018 and 2021. Coincidentally, the warmer temperatures observed in January and February led to an early budbreak and a healthy cover crop. This encouraged us to till more surface than usual at an earlier date to take advantage of spring rain and capture an optimal mineralization window. Spring temperatures set the course for an early onset of water stress. However, the milder climatic demand in Calistoga and good nutrient content in the soils led to healthier and longer growth of the Sauvignon Blanc canopy than during the previous two years. July was hot but August was mild without the heat spikes observed in 2021. This resulted in harmonious sugar accumulation and juicier berries. A light leafing helped expose the clusters to filtered light, enhancing tropical fruit aromas and citrus flavors.
The first Sauvignon Blanc Musqué was picked on August 15th and the later-ripening block adjacent to the winery came last on August 30th.
The wines were aged on their lees for 12 months, in a combination of stainless-steel eggs (23%), concrete eggs (12%), used oak (33%) and new oak (32%).
The Eisele Vineyard grapes are certified ‘Organic’ by CCOF and ‘Biodynamic’ by Demeter.
TASTING NOTES
The 2022 Sauvignon Blanc offers a rich bouquet of Meyer lemon, candied citrus and white peaches. A swirl or two reveals fragrances of hawthorn, jasmine and orange blossom with a hint of cardamom. The mouthfeel is supple, round and silky with a saltiness melting into a long creamy finish, lingering on notes of nectarine, verbena and lemongrass laced with mineral notes. Maturation in French and Austrian puncheons or “demi muis” continues to enhance the purity of the Eisele Sauvignon Blanc and the expression of its terroir.
GRAPE SOURCE
71% Sauvignon Blanc Musqué
29% Sauvignon Blanc
Eisele Vineyard, Napa Valley
1,110 cases made
Release date: February 14, 2024