2012 Old Wine Company, Riesling, Wirz Vineyard, Old Vine, Cienega Valley.
Old Vine Company is the second label of Alfaro Family Vineyards in Corralitos, in the Santa Cruz Mountains and are from non-Estate vineyards in the greater area, mostly from old vine plots in the Cienega Valley in the Gabilan Range close to Hollister, San Benito County which borders Monterey County and not too far from the south Santa Cruz Mountains. The old vine dry Riesling 2012 from Richard Alfaro is a unique and tangy Riesling from vines planted in the early 60’s on it’s own roots, this vineyard is completely dry farmed and sits at about 1,000 feet up with granite and sandstone soils. Richard uses a bit of skin contact here, and ferments seriously dry (13% Alcohol) leaving a rich hue of yellow/gold and adds a real savory element to this lip smacking crisp white, this is bone dry and mouth watering Riesling that shows exotic character and zesty acidity along with an almost creamy/oily feel. The nose starts with dried white roses and citrus flowers along with salted grapefruit and earthy notes leading to a tropical infused palate of verbena, lemon oil, lime, peach pit, sour tarts and kiwi with bright pineapple, mango and nectarine plus hits of sage, dusty stones and wild mint. This is fun stuff that is zippy, spicy and vigorous that finishes with a hint of peach and apple butter, drink now and over the next 6 to 8 months.
($20 Est.) 90 Points, grapelive
