BUONCRISTIANI NV TRIAD BLANC 2011

Notes from the Winemaker: The Buoncristiani Brothers proudly present this premiere release of 2011 Napa Valley TRIAD BLANC. Achieving our desired style and profile for this new program was accomplished through careful vineyard and clonal selection, proper maturity at harvest, and very specific handling of the juice on the gentle path towards bottling. The name is derived from the synergy of blending three varieties to create this unique white wine: Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, and Chardonnay. Similar to the 3 notes in a Triad Chord, the three blend components strike a chord together with great balance, harmony and sustain! Harvest timing was essential, allowing for full flavor development and phenolic maturity in the three varieties. Once the desired flavors were at their peak, the fruit was hand harvested in the early cold morning and gently whole-cluster pressed. The juice was then slowly fermented by both native and specially selected yeast in a combination of small stainless steel drums and French oak barrels. Upon dryness, barrel stirring of the lees commenced to increase the complexity of the aromas and mouthfeel. Malolactic activity was suppressed so as to preserve the true aromas and flavors and maintain the crisp acidity in the finish. The multiple barrel and stainless steel components were then blended and bottled after 6 months of sur lie aging. Complex aromas of lemon zest, white peach, spicy pear, orange sherbert, floral muscat, vanilla, and lemon cream pie entice the senses. On the palate, a creamy texture leads the way to layered flavors of mango, pineapple, apple, key lime pie, honeysuckle and vanilla wafer. Zesty citrus flavors, tropical fruit and ultra bright acidity linger in the crisp and clean finish.