Charles Krug Sauvignon Blanc

I've lived in California for about 5 years and it's hard to believe that I haven't tried a wine from Napa Valley's very 1st winery until tonight! Charles Krug, founded in 1861 by the ambitious 27 year old immigrant, ran as a major producer in Napa that shaped much of the wine-making practices of the region. After Charles passed away and the prohibition, the winery was sold to the Mondavi couple, Cesare and Rosa, in 1943. The Mondavi family has operated the winery since while creating a new legend of their own.

As I sip the 2008 Sauvignon Blanc, I'm amazed at how this pioneering winery's creation exhibits the grace of Napa Valley, marrying a traditional grape varietal with a modern character of natural subtlety. The Sauvignon Blanc is unexpected without the usual wild grassy flavours that you'd find in a typical California Sauvignon Blanc. Rather, it displays a balanced spectrum of happy grapefruit, orange zest, and peony bouquet. How inspiring it is to have a wine that is classic to its roots and at the same time, continues to set itself apart from the crowd!