Bonny Doon Vineyard Central Coast Picpoul, 2022

California, (Central Coast AVA)
90% Picpoul, 10% Grenache Blanc
11.0%

"The redoubtable Beeswax Vineyard in the Arroyo Seco appellation of Monterey County has the very singular and coincidental habit of producing white grapes expressing the unique scent of...well, beeswax. Along with beeswax, one apprehends the rather discreet scent of white flowers and perhaps pineapple. But while the scent of Picpoul is subtle, one is forcefully struck by the wine's bracing acidity and its unique savoriness (who's you-mami?). A soupcon of Grenache Blancs adds a discreet measure of weight and texture; further, there is a discernible quality of brininess that makes this wine and aboslutely perfect match for all manner of crustacean and molluscan nutriment." - Randall Grahm (Winemaker/Founder)

 

TASTING NOTES: With this vintage we’ve gone a little heavier on the Vermentino bit and the results are spectacular:  There is the delicate suggestion of white flowers and of course the quality that Vermentino brings, which the French call balsamique (or resinous).  But what really stands out is the absolutely intense pear-like fragrance (and of course) the wine’s exemplary length and persistence.  

FOOD PAIRINGS: This wine is just calling out for fresh shellfish or a smooth, meaty white fish like sea bass or halibut. Play to the creamy texture of the wine and consider béchamel or beurre blanc sauces and then highlight the subtlety of the mellow fruits by utilizing vibrant green herbs. Of course if you want to get “funky,” add freshly-grated aged parmesan and play up that “stank.”