2011 Bell Sauvignon Blanc, Lake County

Vineyard
Our Sauvignon blanc is grown on the Rosenthal Vineyard in southern Lake County, located to the north of Napa Valley and away from the fog and moisture that characterize the coastal counties. The moderate elevations found in the area contribute to the favorable growing conditions. The unique variety of soils make for a geologically rich region, heavy in volcanic and mineral content, and ideal for growing grapes. The county experiences a 50-degree differential between its daytime and nighttime temperatures, producing very warm days and cool, clear nights. The area is known for producing world-class Sauvignon blanc – with lively crisp and bright fruit flavors, which are more melony than grassy and herbal. Our Sauvignon blanc is cold fermented in stainless steel tanks to retain beautiful, crisp fruit flavors.

Vintage Notes
The 2011 growing season was the most challenging in Anthony’s 35 vintages in Napa Valley, characterized by uncharacteristically cool temperatures, uncertainty, ill-timed rain, and crop loss. A wet winter and spring continued with unusual rainfall into mid-June that delayed bloom and disrupted fruit set in parts of the region. Some vineyards saw more than 30% loss of crop. There were few days over 90 degrees during summer, and autumn started with some rare early rain storms. Overall the cooler-than-average growing season saw more than a third above normal in rainfall and ended in the latest harvest in anyone's memory. This was truly the year of the professional. Vineyard managers, cellar masters and winemakers used every tool available to them to achieve glory. At Bell, careful selection of vineyards, painstaking work during harvest and in the cellar, and of course Anthony’s decades of experience have paid off resulting in truly elegant wines.

Tasting Notes
Our Sauvignon blanc has a brilliantly clear, beautifully pale color. Cold fermented in stainless steel tanks has preserved the fresh citrus and mineral flavors, vivid melony aromatics and brisk acidity, underlain with subtle hints of fresh cut grass. The bright acidity on the palate makes the wine lively and provides a refreshing, long lasting, satisfying finish. A delicious accompaniment to shellfish, poultry, line fish and mild pasta dishes, this wine will brighten any celebration. Or, enjoy a cold glass on the patio, on a warm summer’s day – and wonder!