I know the reds get all of the attention here, but the whites are absolutely at the same level, and I don't know anyone doing white blends like this at the same level. A blend of 32% Roussanne, 26% Viognier, 25% Chardonnay, and the rest Gelber Muskateller and Petit Manseng, from Eleven Confessions, Third Twin, Cumulus, and Bien Nacido, it spent 23 months in 45% new French oak. Incredible aromatics of buttered apricots, acacia flowers, orange blossom, brioche, and caramelized pineapple all define this youthful, primordial white that's full-bodied, has a pure, layered mouthfeel, beautiful freshness, and a great finish. I'd put this up with some of the finest whites yet from this estate.
August 2001