Stolpman Vineyards, Ballard Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara County (California) Sauvignon Blanc, Estate Grown 2023 ($24)

Stolpman has emerged as a strong advocate of Sauvignon Blanc and now produces several versions. The winery’s estate vineyard in Ballard Canyon supplied 70% of the fruit for this wine with the remainder from 3 AVAs in Santa Barbara. The unifying factor is limestone soil. The wine was fermented by native yeasts and aged for 3 months in 60% neutral French oak puncheons and the rest in stainless steel. With its modest alcohol of 12.5%, the wine is bright and lively with an aroma of fresh cut green apple, Meyer lemon and a touch of flintiness. The palate is vibrant with a pleasing texture. It finishes with plenty of zest and a touch of minerality.
91 Norm Roby