Applegate Valley Vermentino Sauvignon Blanc

The nose offers a good deal of tropical fruit, but not the usual suspects. Guava and a gentle lemon note are joined by a mild sense of lanolin and stones. An extremely earthy aspect layers just underneath. On the palate, there’s a zippy acidity that’s really bracing, and really craving some oysters. Actually make that a plate of grilled calamari and scungilli, if you can find such a delicacy where you are. I’m in L.A., and that request is generally met with “Huh?”

This unusual blend of 80% Vermentino and 20% Sauvignon Blanc hails from Troon Vineyard in Applegate Valley—A sub-appellation of Southern Oregon that finds itself a bit overshadowed by the Willamette Valley. I have tasted some lovely whites, especially Rieslings from this region, though this is admittedly, my first Vermentino. Bright lemon yellow in the glass, it's a wine that manages to be full, yet light, there is a real sense of flesh over bones. The fruit flirts at being tropical, but remains reigned in. Asian pear, meadow flowers, golden delicious apple. A burst of minerally-citrus verve at the close. Nicely done. Sample