Sourced from eight different sites in Napa and Sonoma (it's labeled Napa County 43%, Sonoma County 57%), Spottswoode's 2021 Sauvignon Blanc was fermented in stainless steel barrels (50%), used French oak (25%), new French oak (20%) and other vessels (5%). The result is a complex, textural wine that's plump on the palate, round and silky, yet also bright, fresh, vibrant and long, with layers of fig and melon fruit that gradually unfold in the glass. I've been deliberately conservative with respect to its aging potential, but it's worth pointing out that a 2012 tasted at the winery was still drinking exceptionally well (91 points).

The 2020 Sauvignon Blanc opens with vivacious lime juice, yuzu peel and grapefruit scents, followed by notions of lemongrass and wet pebbles. Medium-bodied and intense, it has racy citrus flavors and a steely finish.