The 2009 Grenache Blanc Thompson Vineyard is a gorgeous, refined white graced with exquisite pears, green apples and melon. It shows striking balance and poise through to the inviting, polished finish. The wine was partially fermented in oak (40%), aged in neutral barrels, with 50% malolactic fermentation. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2015.

Pale yellow. Pear, honey and white flowers on the nose. Fleshy and broad on the palate, with supple pear fruit lifted by bitter citrus pith hints and a floral element. Just a touch warm on the dry finish, which repeats the pear and floral notes. This will work well with rich seafood dishes.

Roasted pineapple and peach flavors are rich and harmonious, as an almond note marks the finish. This features a firm, slightly course texture. Juicy finish. Drink now.

Very rich, creamy and delicious. Feels full-bodied and oaky in the mouth, although there’s no new wood, showing vanilla, buttered toast and honey flavors adding to the peaches, pears, mangoes, tangerines, limes and spices. An exotic alternative to Chardonnay. – S.H. WE Online Winemag Review: A delicious and interesting white wine, made from a variety more usually used for blending purposes. It’s honey-rich but dry, similar in structure to an oaky Chardonnay, with tropical fruit and vanilla flavors that have a pleasant touch of bitterness.