2017 McGill Vineyard Riesling - Sans Wine Company

Lime zest, cucumber spritz, crunchy pear. Diced honeydew, orchard blossom, peach essence. Green apple skin and cantaloupe, turmeric powder and honeysuckle. Noticeably mineral and almost slightly effervescent sporting high acid and lean stainless steel zing. Lacking any hint of petrol and more reticent than aromatic; instead boasting subtle dry tartness and a long lingering finish. This 2017 McGill Vineyard Riesling by Sans Wine Company is a non-traditional take on this storied white wine grape.

Once upon a time Napa Valley was planted to substantial quantities of Riesling. Those old vines have now mostly been ripped out in favor of Bordeaux varietals, but some have survived to grant us a glimpse into the ghost of Napa's past. The McGill Vineyard, located in the prestigious Rutherford appellation in the heart of Napa Valley, still boast some wonderful old Riesling vines. Originally planted in 1957 these dry farmed vines have worked to produce a wine that is unlike most examples of the varietal you will experience. Sans Wine Co. has carefully worked this precious fruit into something refreshingly cheerful and contemporary. While medium in body this wine retains a sense of lean minerality that edges toward drinkability over contemplative depth. It is certainly a unique take on this ancient German grape that should appeal to a wide range of wine drinking demographics. It is definitely far from Mosel Kabinett but we really enjoyed sipping on this craft canned creation.