Our 2012 Sauvignon Blanc is almost translucent lemon in color, aromas are characterized by citrus, gooseberries, lemon grass and tomato leaf. Pomelo and ripe grapefruit flavors give way to fresh acidity and slight minerality in the mid-palate. This moderately weighted wine features a full mouth-feel and crisp lingering finish; sure to make a Sauvignon Blanc lover of you.
Alta Maria is the brainchild of viticulturist and winemaker James Ontiveros and Paul Wilkins, friends first, and now collaborators. Half the fruit for their small-production Santa Maria Valley Chardonnay (820 cases) goes through malolatic fermentation, giving this wine a custardy, rich California Chard mid palate while still providing plenty of food-friendly acidity. Green apple, melon, Ojai Pixie and hay aromas give way to a palate with anise, lavender, cinnamon and butterscotch flavors to balance the plush fruit. Delicious.