Pine Ridge 80% Chenin Blanc - 20% Viognier (California) 2009

Appearance: The wine is bright, clear and pale in color (almost winter wheat white to water-white). The "legs" are wide indicating some viscosity.

Nose/Aroma: Pronounced combination of pear and honey-dew melon. After a swirl there is a hint of elusive citrus.

Palate: This is a dry, full-bodied wine with a medium(++) level of mouth-watering acidity. The fruit characteristics are of a medium(-) intensity of apricot and pear with a hint of citrus. There is no indication of alcohol burn (11.8% ABV).

Finish/Length: The finish is clean with a medium(-) length primarily of citrus with maybe a lingering hint of apricot and lychee.

Conclusion: This is a crisp, pleasant, and refreshing wine. Its US$12.00 retail price makes it an attractive value. Although the producer states there is a subtle sweetness, I did not perceive this but the wine certainly is in balance.

Producer Tasting Notes: Our 2009 bottling of this distinctive blend presents a fragrant bouquet of fresh fruit notes including Asian pear, pomelo and lychee, touched with a delicate floral layer of jasmine blossom and kaffir line leaf. On the palate, enjoy a slightly off-dry harmony of fruit flavors including honeydew melon, ruby red grapefruit, juicy white peach and crisp golden apple. Bright acidity and a clean, refreshing finish round out this wonderfully radiant and delightful wine.