Sparkling Version of Acclaimed Chenin Blanc + Viognier Blend Adds a Versatile New Offering to the Stags Leap District Winery’s Portfolio
NAPA VALLEY, Calif. (September 16, 2020) — Pine Ridge Vineyards, a producer of world-famous Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley’s renowned Stags Leap District, today announced the release of its inaugural sparkling wine, an extension of the winery’s genre-defining still Chenin Blanc + Viognier. The release marks Pine Ridge Vineyards’ first new label in 25 years and begins an exciting new chapter for the popular blend. The inaugural vintage will be available for $18 (SRP) online and in retail beginning October 1, 2020.
“The Chenin Blanc + Viognier blend started as an experimental pairing in our tasting room and soon became a visitor favorite. Our goal is to continue that creativity with a unique, versatile sparkling wine everyone will love,” said Michael Beaulac, winemaker and general manager of Pine Ridge Vineyards.
Crafted in a dry, brut style, the sparkling blend features a primarily Chenin Blanc base with a hint of Viognier. The unique combination of two varieties that would never share the same bottle in their native France results in a surprisingly sophisticated yet approachable, refreshing wine that is the ultimate alternative to both Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, while still appealing to lovers of both. An everyday wine as ideal with potato chips and popcorn as it is with oysters and caviar, this non-vintage brut has a similar profile to its still counterpart with a bright, refreshing entry, delicate mousse, and notes of ginger, ruby grapefruit, lemon curd, and apple.
This Chenin Blanc + Viognier sparkler is food-friendly, pairing exceptionally well with everything from light salads and seafood to hors d’oeuvres such as prosciutto with melon. Most notably, the wine pairs well with Asian cuisines and other foods that have a hint of spiciness. The subtle sweet fruit notes provide balance alongside a touch of heat.
The Chenin Blanc grapes are sourced from the Clarksburg, California appellation, which is referred to as the “Gem of the Delta.” Grapes are picked when they are slightly less ripe than for the brut’s still counterpart, resulting in a lower ABV than the still version. The Clarksburg climate has a moderately long growing season and benefits from the maritime influence of the Sacramento River. The Viognier grapes are sourced from Lodi, California, which has a classic Mediterranean climate with warm days and cool nights. Natural air-conditioning is provided by the San Joaquin/Sacramento River Delta breezes and produces grapes with natural acidity.
Colleen FitzGerald, enologist and assistant winemaker at Pine Ridge Vineyards, leads the vineyard and winery operations for the Chenin Blanc + Viognier program under the direction of Beaulac. FitzGerald works closely with growers to make decisions about pruning, vine management, and harvest timing. In the cellar, she sees these wines through fermentation and blending.
Pine Ridge Vineyards specializes in producing Cabernet Sauvignon made in the heart of the Stags Leap District of Napa Valley. The Tasting Room is open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday with an array of outdoor experiences. The winery is located at 5901 Silverado Trail, Napa, California.
About Pine Ridge Vineyards
Established in the Stags Leap District of Napa Valley in 1978, Pine Ridge Vineyards produces expressive Cabernet Sauvignons that are artfully crafted from the winery’s estate vineyards across five renowned appellations: Stags Leap District, Howell Mountain, Oakville, Rutherford, and Carneros. Winemaker Michael Beaulac leads his team to craft exceptional wines that are poised and balanced and express their place of origin. For more information, visit www.PineRidgeVineyards.com.
