I loved this delicious white Spanish variety by winemaker Justin Kahler of JK Wine Company in Paso Robles. Grown in Jack Ranch Vineyard in South County, farmed by Paragon Vineyards, it’s planted with clones from the Rias Baixas region of Spain. Kahler ferments the grapes in neutral oak to get the richness without the oak influence on the crisp, light wine. It’s subtle and elegant with aromas and flavors of nectarine, pink grapefruit, lime, spice, and minerals. It’s way too drinkable on its own, but it’s great for holiday dinner dishes like seared scallops in a citrus sauce or roast turkey. Kahler likes it with Hog Island oysters on the half shell. It’s limited in quantity, but still available at the Meritage Tasting Room in Paso Robles for $32 retail or at jkwinecompany.com.
This article appears in Nov 4-10, 2010.
