2014 Spottswoode Sauvignon Blanc

Wine Enthusiast, Virginie Boone

Editors’ Choice 100 of 2015
A magical blend of 73% Sauvignon Blanc with 27% Sauvignon Musque, from a landmark producer of the variety, this is a complex and elegant expression of lushly layered peach and mandarin orange, balanced and structured for years to come. From vineyards both within Napa Valley and throughout Sonoma, including Knights Valley and Sonoma Mountain, it’s eminently sippable and a fine wine for the table. 94 points (December 31, 2015)

The Wine Advocate, Robert Parker

This iconic Napa Cabernet Sauvignon producer from St. Helena now produces greater quantities of Sauvignon Blanc, which is a cross-county Napa/Sonoma blend. The 2014 Sauvignon Blanc exhibits grassy fig, honeysuckle and melon notes that seem to suggest a hypothetical blend of the Bordeaux and Loire Valley styles of Sauvignon Blanc. With crisp acidity, medium body and terrific fruit, this is one of the benchmarks for Sauvignon Blanc in Northern California. This particular cuvée seems to show a bit more grassiness than previous vintages. Drink it over the next 1-3 years. (#223, March 3, 2016)

Vinous Media, Antonio Galloni

Spottswoode’s 2014 Sauvignon Blanc is bright and aromatic in style, with chiseled fruit and plenty of citrus overtones. Drink this floral, refreshing Sauvignon Blanc over the next year or two. The Sauvignon is mostly done in steel, which keeps the flavors bright throughout. (October 2015)

IntoWine, Michael Cervin

Spottswoode Estate has long been one of those wineries that receives high acclaim but less commensurate public attention. Winemaker Aron Weinkauf crafts beautiful expressions of Cabernet Sauvignon, but also an impressive Sauvignon Blanc. Comprised of 73% Sauvignon Blanc and 27% Sauvignon Musque from six different vineyard sites in Napa, Sonoma and Carneros, his creation is an inviting wine. Beginning with expressive notes of white peach, tangerine, honeysuckle, guava, lime zest, orange blossoms and a wisp of gardenia and menthol, its success lies in both floral and aromatic components that meld seamlessly. The bright acidity works its way through the entire palate, lingering on the finish. Using a combination of stainless steel barrels, French oak, and concrete egg, its unique expression it matched by its viscosity. It finds a stride between New World boldness and Old World intricacy, and is an excellent example of a clean, crisp, multi-faceted and aromatic Sauvignon Blanc from the Napa/Sonoma region. Pair with: California Roll, tuna tartar, bruschetta with buffalo mozzarella, marinated grilled tofu. (January 17, 2017)

ThirstyGirl, Leslie Sbrocco

A classy white for those serious about Sauvignon, this wine is aromatic and focused. It sits alongside many of the best examples of the variety globally, but most importantly, it’s a deliciously drinkable white. It belongs poolside with a good book or tableside with simply prepared dishes. Either way, the wine will shine. (October 6, 2016)