Grapelive Daily Pick
By Kerry Winslow
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2008 Ryan Chenin Blanc Arroyo Seco, Monterey County.
Peggy Ryan, know for her elegant and deep Pinot Noirs, has produced a delightful and hand-crafted white wine from the grape of Vouvray fame and it is turning out a bright and refreshing wine that has a light touch, but still demands attention. The Ryan Chenin Blanc is an interesting white that shows off the best of this grape, while not too serious with a lively charm. The nose is tangy and has lots of citrus and peach, but at first it is really subtle and doesn’t give away much, while the palate has citrus, peach and pear with a high tone accent and a rocky or chalky edge that gives hints of depth. I wouldn’t suggest thinking too much about the wine itself, but it should really come to live with Oysters and or white fish. While I am a big fan of Ryan wines and I quite enjoyed this one, it really is a bit pricey when compared to the French Vouvray or other Loire Chenin, plus there are some very good Chenin Blanc’s coming from South Africa as well, though, that said, I think it is a fun and worthy effort, so you might want to try it if you see it around. ($24 Est.) 85-86 Points, grapelive
*This wine is brand new one and a fresh release, it should be hitting fine wine merchants soon. It can be ordered now by the case at
(by special request only)
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