2008 Grgich Hills "Violetta Late Harvest" Dessert Blend

One 375ml bottle

The grapes were grown at Grgich Hills’ American Canyon Vineyard, which is certified organic and Biodynamic®. In the lowest spot of this cool vineyard, they’ve found the perfect conditions of low-lying fog to grow botrytis-affected grapes. In two small blocks a field blend of predominantly Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling with some Gewurztraminer is planted and nurtured to encourage botrytis. Because of the unpredictable nature of this “noble rot,” this wine takes a tremendous amount of work, including several passes to pick individual clusters as they become cloaked in the mold that creates this unique richness and flavors in a wine. 
 
This late harvest wine is the result of Botrytis cinerea, a beneficial mold that evaporates moisture while concentrating the flavor in the berry but yielding very little juice when the grapes are pressed. The thick, rich juice is fermented and then aged in French oak to develop its subtle flavors and textures. Ripe white peaches, orange blossom honey and toasted almonds are prominent in the nose and the wine’s incredible depth coats the mouth with flavors that linger forever. 

Ripe white peaches, clover honey and toasted almonds