World renowned. Washington grown.
2006 Grand Estates Sauvignon Blanc
Best Buy - Wine Enthusiast
Tasting Notes
“This Sauvignon Blanc emphasizes the fruit focus without compromising the fresh, slightly grassy aromatics. It is rich and tropical on the palate with a distinctive crispness and a refreshing finish.” -Ray Einberger, Winemaker
Growing Season
- The 2006 growing season was marked by weather extremes, with near record rainfall in the Columbia Valley during the early spring and record high temperatures in early and mid-summer
- Although a challenging season weather-wise, exceptional sites including the warmer parts of the Horse Heaven Hills and Wahluke Slope saw early ripening and bold flavors from the high temperatures.
- In the cooler growing areas, later ripening prompted good acidity and flavor in white varietals, as well as good color, pronounced fruit flavors and less aggressive tannins in reds.
Vineyards
- Premium vineyards throughout the Columbia Valley are sources for Columbia Crest’s Grand Estates Sauvignon Blanc.
- Vineyards are seated east of the Cascade Mountain range. Up to 14,000 feet high, the mountains effectively block eastward-moving wet weather systems from the Pacific Ocean.
- Just 6 to 8 inches of rainfall reach the growing region annually. Vineyards are 100% drip irrigation.
- The soils have low fertility and low water-holding capacity, allowing precise control of vine growth patterns.
- Vines are planted north to south on south and southeast facing slopes.
Vinification
- Grapes were pressed, cold-settled, and racked off the solids into temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks.
- Inoculation with selected yeast strains to enhance varietal character began the 14-20 day cool fermentation in stainless steel.
- A portion of finished wine was aged in barrels, adding complexity and enhancing mouth-feel.
- Extreme caution was exercised to prevent malolactic fermentation, thus preserving the crisp acid and fresh flavors.
Technical Data
- Total acidity: 0.61 g/100ml
- Residual Sugar: 0.65 g/100ml
- pH: 3.27
- Alcohol: 13.5%