Grieve Family Vineyards, Napa Valley (California) Sauvignon Blanc 2018

The Sauvignon Blanc grapes for this wine were grown in Lovall Valley, which is in Napa Valley, but accessible only from Sonoma.  It is considered the coolest site in Napa Valley, because it sits in bowl shape depression surrounded by hills, which allows cold air to settle and remain throughout the day.  For 30-plus years, I’ve been going to Napa Valley and had never heard of Lovall Valley until I received this wine.  How did I miss it?  I felt a little better when I found a video on the winery’s website.  It featured their super-star winemaker Philippe Melka.  He said he did not know about Lovall Valley until he started working with the Grieve in 2918.  This wine certainly suggests that Lovall Valley is a great place for Sauvignon Blanc.  Additionally, those grapes are planted in soil comprised of a fine ocean floor silt containing seashells, which might explain the complexity of flavors in the wine.  Lemon, lime, grapefruit fruit is entwined with lemon scented herbs such as lemon balm and lemon verbena and dusty, chalky notes.  In the mouth, rich citrus, peach flavors with a touch of vanilla are balanced with vivid acidity.  These luscious flavors linger.  Enjoy this exceptional wine with grilled halibut or roast chicken.