2015OnwardPetNat2015 Onward, Pétillant-Naturel, Malvasia Bianca Sparkling Wine, Suisun Valley.
One of the best California Pet-Nats, Onward’s Malvasia Bianca sparkling white is intensely dry and vibrant with a racy mouse and fine aromatics. Faith Armstrong-Foster, winemaker, crafts some lovely wines, her Pinots are her signature wines, they are lighter and fresh in style with loads of cool climate charm and character, but for pure fun and zesty enjoyment you’ll want to find her Petillant-Naturel, a bubbles that is from high acid early picked grapes and fermented with natural yeasts, no additives or sugar used and the wine finishes in bottle with lots of fine lees, which adds to the complexity, though leaves a slightly clouded appearance, which I find more interesting. This crown cap finished, pop-top, sparkler has lots of zing with pretty jasmine flowers, minty basil, green apple and a core of lime fruit along with white pepper, melon and white licorice. The mousse gives a touch of creaminess, but this is severely dry and crisp with a low alcohol feel, making for a refreshing experience. You’ll want to enjoy this Pet-Nat all day long, but don’t forget to try it with cuisine, it is gorgeous with sushi, oysters and especially cool with light seafood pasta. This is additive stuff that you’ll find reasons to open, it is perfect for everyday use and for weekend fun, it’s great for starting an evening or meal and any casual celebration. I’ve tried a few vintages now, but this 2015 is the best yet from Onward, drink over the next year or so.
($24 Est.) 90 Points, grapelive

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