2012 Sheldon, Vinolocity Blanc, Sonoma Coast.
Watch out, this is going to be a great wine, after seeing the last vintages develop, I’m sure this 2012 will surpass the prior efforts and it is drinking super now, only a week and a half after bottling! So, this is a real sneak peak, because not set release date has been given and Dylan and Tobe Sheldon like to hold their wines until they start showing all the potential in the glass, though with demand being what it is I’m confident it should be available soon. The Vinolocity series, are the flagship wines for the Sheldon’s and the passion shows in these unique and wonderful wines which are inspired by their time winemaking in the southern Rhone, with Gigondas and Chateauneuf du Pape coming to mind, even though they put their own twist on things and are exploring low alcohol styles and highlighting there Sonoma Coast terroir. The new 2012 Vinolocity Blanc is a vibrant and intense blend of Grenache Blanc, Roussanne and Viognier all of which play well together making this artisan white sing with beautiful voice, it starts with a heady perfume of jasmine, orange blossom and honeysuckle before flowing to a zesty youthful palate of mixed citrus, green apple, nectarine, apricot and white peach with white tea, ginger and pepper spiciness. Crisp acidity drive the wine at this stage, but it should give way to a creamy texture of time and a butterscotch note will come in a year or so in bottle. It will be fun to watch this wine grow up and I will put a few bottles away myself, even though I love it now, plus I’ll give a second report on release.
($TBD) 93+ Points, grapelive
