2021 Cliff Lede "Marla" Blanc, Napa Valley
available
An ethereal fragrance of pear tart, Gravenstein apple, beeswax, Li Hing spiced pineapple, and orange oil emerges and weaves effortlessly atop the bouquet. Mineral notes abound and are laden with hints of cool wet gravel, powdered chalk, and flint. Tiers of tangy lemon candy and Kaffir lime flavors intertwine with delicate citrus flowers and mint leaf. With only 60 cases produced, this is a seamlessly pure wine with a tightly woven, and classic structure complemented by mouth-watering salinity and an effortlessly lithe finish. – Christopher Tynan, Director of Winemaking
Wine Specs
Vintage
2021
Varietal
White Blend
Appellation
Napa Valley
Alcohol %
12.8
Wine Profile
Vineyard Notes
A selection of our finest estate and grower white wine barrels were blended to create the highest expression of the vintage. An old-vine Sémillon vineyard in Calistoga contributes density, richness, and lemon curd flavors and aromas to the blend. A historic vineyard site in Chiles Valley planted to Sauvignon Vert adds complex stone fruit and an earthy minerality. Our fabulous young estate-grown Sauvignon Blanc and Sauvignon Musqué vines from our properties in the Stags Leap District and Calistoga add sumptuous orchard fruit flavors, delicate floral notes, and mouthwatering acidity to the blend.
Production Notes
The fruit was hand-harvested in the cool darkness of night and arrived at the winery at dawn. The grapes were then held in controlled conditions of low oxygen and cold temperatures. Our fruit underwent gentle, whole-cluster pressing which released the delicate, prized juices from the clusters and created a deeper level of complexity. The juice was fermented in new French oak barrels. All fermentations were conducted at cold temperatures to preserve the freshness of the fruit. Upon reaching dryness, the wine was aged on its lees and select barrels underwent occasional battonage.
Winemaker Notes
A beautiful golden yellow hue, the 2021 Marla’s understated elegance gracefully blossoms with time in the glass. An ethereal fragrance of pear tart, Gravenstein apple, beeswax, Li Hing spiced pineapple, and orange oil emerges and weaves effortlessly atop the bouquet. Mineral notes abound and are laden with hints of cool wet gravel, powdered chalk, and flint. Tiers of tangy lemon candy and Kaffir lime flavors intertwine with delicate citrus flowers and mint leaf. With only 60 cases produced, this is a seamlessly pure wine with a tightly woven, and classic structure complemented by mouth-watering salinity and an effortlessly lithe finish. – Christopher Tynan, Director of Winemaking