2021 ORNG

90 PTS — Rick VanSickle “The eclectic nose shows Mandarin orange, ginger, dried citrus, savoury herbs, lychee and marzipan. The tannins from all that skin contact are evident on the palate and adds some structure to go with tangerine, herbaceous notes, bright and tangy citrus, lychee nuts and juicy acidity holding everything together on a fresh, finessed finish. Pure sunshine in a glass. Grapes were hand-harvested, destemmed and fermented naturally with punchdowns twice daily. After fermentation the tanks were sealed and opened again in April the following year. Pressed after 7+ months (232 days) on the skins and put to neutral barrels to further age for a few months. For 2021, the final blend comprised 58% Riesling and 42% Gewürztraminer. More delicate notes from a lighter vintage. Equal parts nectarine and clementine aromatics followed by fresh field honey, guava, jasmine and savoury spice. Extraordinarily well-integrated tannins meet with juicy acidity on the finish. We recommend storing this wine cool.