2011 Rudd Sauvignon Blanc Mt. Veeder

The 2011 Sauvignon Blanc offers up juicy pears, white flowers, mango and lime. Exotic and flavorful, the 2011 impresses for its balance and overall harmony. This is easily one of the most unique and compelling Sauvignons being made in Napa Valley. The 2011 is 87% Sauvignon Blanc, 10% Sauvignon Gris and 3% Semillon. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2016. Leslie Rudd has spared no expense in trying to get the most of his superb vineyards in Oakville, but there is little question this is a multi-year project. In 2006 Rudd brought in David Abreu and his team to manage the vineyards. One of the priorities has been replanting a number of parcels and increasing the amount of Cabernet Franc on the property. In 2008, the estate replaced most of its heavy vineyard equipment in favor of lighter tractors that are gentler on the soils. Since then the Rudd team, headed by Patrick Sullivan, has crafted a number of terrific wines. Still, my sense is that the best is yet to come, especially with regards to the estate's top reds. Tel. (707) 944-8577