Grapelive Wine of the Week
By Kerry Winslow
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2010 Sheldon “Vinolocity Blanc” Sonoma Coast (Viognier, Roussanne & Grenache Blanc)
I was granted a sneaky peak to this new wine from the Sheldon’s, along with their wine club, and I must say, this is a must get at all costs wine that is dynamic and full of potential! This wine, inspired by Chateauneuf-du-Pape whites and Dylan and Tobe Sheldon have nailed it and then some with their 2010 Vinolocity Blanc. In a week when I had tasted many a glorious Burgundy and other greats, I found myself even more impressed by the new lineup at Sheldon Wines, even though I consider myself a friend and fan of their wines, these pre release samples on show were stunning in pleasure, freshness and complexity. With out any question, the direction and winemaking at Sheldon has stepped up a few notches and these are the best set of wines yet made by Dylan and Tobe. The 2010 Sheldon “Vinolocity Blanc” is a Sonoma Coast gem, made with about 50% Viognier (early picked) 25% Roussanne and 25% Grenache Blanc and left on skins and stems for a bit to add complexity, spice and grip, while the earlier picked Viognier give subtle perfume and a touch more crisp acidity, making for a vibrant and intense wine. The nose has just a whiff of jasmine, honeysuckle and white flowers, but the stony minerals and nectarine shine brighter, leading to a round and deep palate of yellow citrus, peach and white stone fruits with hints of exotic tropical fruit, smoke and clarified cream/butter, and the finish has pepper, Indian spices and candied hot ginger notes. Old and New Worlds collide in near perfect order here to create something remarkable and special. This is a fantastic and sexy wine, get on the Sheldon’s list to get this beauty, you’ll be very happy.
($32 Est.-TBD-Pre Release) 94 Points, grapelive
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