The 2005 The Petition (a blend of 37% Viognier, 33% Roussanne, and 30% Chardonnay; 62% from John Alban’s vineyard and 38% from the Eleven Confessions Vineyard) is more restrained than the 2006. 2005 was a cooler year, but you wouldn’t know that from the glorious opulence in both the aromatics and flavors of this light golden-colored wine. Litchi nut, buttered tropical fruits, flower, and subtle wood notes soar from the glass. Rich, dry, full-bodied flavors coat the palate, but supporting underlying acidity provides superb definition to the wine’s mass and intensity. This cuvee, along with its younger sibling, are among the most profound dry whites being made in California. Hopefully they will encourage more wineries to move away from varietal labeling and create blends such as these. I believe that is the future for Central Coast whites. To reiterate, it is a challenge to analyze these wines. I know they are distinctive, and I think I am beginning to understand why they are so much greater than just about every other Syrah or Grenache-based wine in California. In short, it is talent and incredibly meticulous hard work. No one works as hard or is as maniacal about a vineyard’s viticulture and winemaking as Manfred Krankl. Take that, add in exceptional talent, humility, top-notch vineyards, and I believe I understand the fundamentals of why these wines are so special.Tel. (805) 649-8901