The 2022 Matthiasson Napa Valley White Blend delights with crunchy white peach, crisp pear and delicate lemon, layered with cashew, green wisps of pea shoots, sun-dried hay, chestnut honey, and a seashell-like finish that’s clean, vertical, and gourmand. With a 12.5% ABV that practically makes me giddy with joy, it’s composed of 46% Semillon, 29% Ribolla Gialla, 23% Sauvignon Blanc, and 2% Tocai Friulano, that was gently whole-cluster-pressed. It underwent native yeast fermentation before malolactic was arrested, then spent 10 months aging unstirred on its lees in 15% new oak. The wine was filtered to prevent ML, bottled, and released after a year of age. With its bright acidity and thoughtful winemaking, it is poised to age gracefully for years to come. I’ll be honest—I’m a complete fangirl for the wines of Steve Matthiasson. With a winemaking background myself, I admire not only how he makes wine, but also how transparent he is about his process—and of course, the fact that everything I’ve tasted has been sensational. His wines are low in alcohol yet fully dry, sparking endless thoughts about just how good they are and all the ways I’d love to drink them. They’re approachable, effortless, and deeply satisfying. Pair with lightly dressed salads, oysters, steamed clams, mild fish dishes, or goat cheese and snacks.

Like the other wines from this vintner, this White Blend is pure, fresh, dry and lower alcohol. The lovely nose is alive with stone fruits...apricot and peach dominant. There are also some savory herb scents and wet stone scents for balance. The palate is clean and fresh, with minerals, light and fresh stone fruits. The finish is long and slightly savory. This is where the Ribolla Gialla stands out! A super wonderful and interesting alternative to Chardonnay.