Well into its second decade of working with Stillwater Creek Vineyard, L’Ecole uses this Sèmillon to help showcase the enduring expertise of longtime viticulturist Ed Kelly at what is arguably the quintessential site in the recently established Royal Slope American Viticultural Area. The white Bordeaux variety offers very inviting and classic aromas of Lemonhead Candy along with dried papaya and Italian lime soda. Following flavors include melon and Asian pear, yet perhaps the hallmark of this bottling is the exceptional mouthfeel created by its time in neutral French oak barrels. That allows for a pleasing thread of food-friendly acidity with just a touch of apricot skin tannin, making it rather complex and setting the stage for the twist of lemon in the finish. Second-generation vintner Marty Clubb suggests pairing this with ahi tuna or lemongrass chicken.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 350 cases
Alcohol: 14%
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