Review 2008 Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River, Shone Farm Vineyard, Signaterra by Benziger
Haydn S. Adams | Beyond Napa Valley Wine Blog
Appellation: Russian River Valley, California | Shone Farm Vineyard (single vineyard)
ALC: 14.1%
You can buy this wine at: signaterra.com/ (though it’s not up online for purchasing yet)
Retail price: N/A
Haydn gives it: 92pts
When one thinks of grapes that are grown in the Russian river, the default answer would be the Pinot Noir. It’s an ideal growing condition and this many wineries have concentrated their energies to that precious grape. But Benziger decided to excel with another grape from that region—the Sauvignon Blanc grape. And excel they did.
Before I go too far, I should disclose that Sauvignon Blanc is one of my favorite white varietals. While I do try to remain as impartial as I can on this blog, personal preference does come in from time to time. Staying completely neutral is something I just can’t do.
I’ve got 4 words for you—Quintessential California Sauvignon Blanc. The wine displays beautiful characteristics of a bit of citrus, especially grapefruit. The color is surpisingly clear, almost harking more to the light yellow of a Chenin Blanc or of a Viogner. This wine goes straight to the point, and is indeed very elegant.
The wine is brand new, having just been released May 1st of this year. It’s so new, I can’t even find a price on this wine. The sold-out 2006 was going for $26, so I’m guessing it will be right around that price point. It is higher for a Sauvignon Blanc than most out there, but the price is justified in the quality. One final note, that this wine is part of Benziger’s “Certified Sustainable Grape Growing Program”. I guess you can say it’s good for you, and the environment.
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Haydn Adams is the author of the book, Wineries Beyond Napa Valley: Dry Creek and Alexander Valley, an insider’s tasting guide to the hidden gems region. He also contributes to the Beyond Napa Valley Wine Blog, writes for vinvillage.com, and can be found roaming the hills of Sonoma County looking for the next hidden gems. You can contact him at haydn@beyondnapavalley.com