2023 Bell Mountain Sauvignon Blanc
Our Sauvignon Blanc is grown on two separate sites at Bell Mountain and on two different clones. The more northerly growing site has east to west sun exposure for extreme ripening of the fruit. The southern site is one of our coolest spots at Bell Mountain which creates layers of minerality, freshness, lively citrus characters, and the palate cleansing acidity we look for in Sauvignon Blanc. These sites provide a range of ripeness and fruit characteristics that allow the winemaking team to craft something expressive of Bell Mountain Vineyard each year.
The 2023 Bell Mountain Sauvignon Blanc was fermented in 100% stainless steel. The tank was stirred every other week to enhance mouthfeel and structure of the wine. The grapes we destemmed and macerated overnight for about 18 hours on the skins to allow for further extraction of flavor and aromas. The juice was fermented cold to maintain freshness and those classic Sauvignon Blanc varietal characteristics. The 2023 Bell Mountain Sauvignon Blanc is a lively and refreshing wine with vibrant aromas of lemon pith, classic white peach, and lemon curd. The taste is marked by mouthwatering acidity, a round and creamy mid-palate, and a zingy finish of tropical fruits and a touch of grapefruit sweetness. Overall, it's a well-balanced and delightful wine, perfect for those who enjoy a bright and citrusy flavor profile with a hint of sweetness on the finish.
Vintage
The 2023 vintage was exceptional in so many ways and is expected to stand out as one of the finest. Beginning with a much-needed abundance of rainfall, a welcome relief after three years of intense drought, the vineyard came back to life with vibrant soil and canopies. A cool spring and summer allowed for a prolonged and gradual ripening period, resulting in exceptional phenolic ripeness and abundant flavors without excessively high sugar levels. Harvest kicked off later than usual, progressing at a steady pace that required lots of patience. This promises to be a vintage worth remembering and one that will let Bell Mountain truly express itself. We can't wait to savor the fruits of this extraordinary season.