2015 Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley - 538 Wine Notes

Co-founded by Dan and Margaret Duckhorn in 1976, Duckhorn Vineyards has spent almost forty years establishing itself as one of North America’s premier producers of Napa Valley wines. From its modest inaugural vintage of 800 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon and 800 cases of Merlot in 1978, to its addition of Sauvignon Blanc in 1982, Duckhorn Vineyards has crafted a tradition of quality and excellence that continues today. 

 This elegant wine is a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon harvested from the Duckhorn estate and other select premium Napa Valley vineyards. A portion of the Sauvignon Blanc was barrel-fermented in French oak. This technique and the addition of the Sémillon add depth and complexity to the aroma and palate, enhancing the ripe citrus and tropical flavors of the Sauvignon Blanc. 

In Napa Valley, a warm, dry spring resulted in any early budbreak, while an extended flowering period brought a return to normal yields after three years of 2 abundant crops. With berry weights down, the grapes offered great concentration, while retaining excellent acidity. 2015 was one of our earliest harvests in the past decade, with the first white grapes arriving at the winery on July 31st. A light rain in mid-September nourished the vines, while providing welcome additional hangtime. Overall, the quality of the fruit was exceptional, with the white wines showing both richness and complexity. 

Exotic aromas of passion fruit, papaya, ginger and star fruit leap from the glass, along with layers of grapefruit and melon. On the palate, a lovely Sémillon-driven silkiness provides delicate weight to this wine, while crisp, refreshing acidity and vibrant citrus flavors draw the wine to a lingering finish with notes of Meyer lemon and Kaffir lime.