Vivid and elegant with a fresh spray of minerals, 2016 Blancaneaux offers an evocative bouquet reminiscent of white flowers, honeysuckle, Asian pears, and grapefruit zest. Complex and full-bodied, the subtle creaminess on the palate results from a touch of French oak. Its layered structure is well complemented by a lingering finish and vivacious flavors of white peach, citrus and vanilla.
A winter with average rainfall followed four years of drought, providing ample soil moisture to kick off the 2016 growing season. Early spring was warm, triggering rapid, healthy canopy growth. Late-spring temperatures and limited rainfall reduced the risk of frost during mid-May bloom, ensuring standard yields. June closed with warmer temperatures, slowing vine canopy growth at the ideal time. Cool August weather helped the fruit retain the freshness valued in this wine. The Blancaneaux harvest began with Viognier on August 29th, followed by Marsanne, and finished with Roussanne on September 9th.