In 1996, three years before Marc Girardet took over the winemaking from his father, the family planted this French hybrid. According to acclaimed British critic Jancis Robinson, Seyval Blanc has been the third-most popular wine grape grown in England. It ripens easily in Southern Oregon and last year was picked at 23 Brix on Sept. 17 — just before the torrential rains struck the Oregon coast. The nose brings none of the foxiness often associated with hybrids as it features aromas of Key lime pie, cantaloupe, starfruit, Lemonhead candy and mint leaf. The drink opens easily with honeydew melon, then the acidity ramps up rapidly on the midpalate with Granny Smith apple and lemon peel before a finish of sweet lime and timothy hay. Suggested fare includes Asian dishes with some heat or a fruit and cheese plate.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 59 cases
Alcohol: 12%
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