Rancho Zabaco is named for one of the original Mexican land grants in Northern Sonoma, which crosses over portions of the Russian River Valley, the area where our grapes are grown. The wines are inspired by the bold spirit and rich heritage of the Spanish and Mexican pioneers who settled this rugged land.
The 2008 harvest presented many challenges including frost, heat, drought, and wind, however most producers were able to overcome these trials to produce a crop that was smaller than usual, but of very high quality. The early growing season was characterized by very dry weather and then frost hit in April, which was the worst frost reported in decades. As the vines were blooming in May, an early heat wave caused the vines to set a smaller crop than normal. The summer months were fairly moderate and warm, with an early harvest beginning in August. Another heat wave hit in early September which increased sugar levels rather quickly and left winemakers frantically rushing to pick the ripening grapes. Cooler weather came in late September and slowed harvest. The region was fortunate to avoid rain until late October as the harvest was winding down. Overall, the crop was smaller versus the 2007 harvest, but the fruit was balanced and of high quality.
After harvest, the grapes selected for this wine were whole cluster-pressed, in order to avoid harsh phenolics. The must was then chilled to allow most of the solids to settle before being racked to the fermenter to give a more elegant mouthfeel. The clear juice was fermented in stainless steel tanks (70%) and oak barrels (30%) at 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit for two to three weeks. The wine was aged sur lie for two months prior to racking, fining and filtering. The wine then spent two months in bottle before release.
Our Rancho Zabaco Sauvignon Blanc exhibits intense aromas and flavors of lime peel, cut grass, and gooseberry with notes of ripe peach and tropical fruit. With a touch of minerality, the mouthfeel is both crisp and refined and has an exceptionally lengthy finish. The wine is elegant and expressive, showing the many great varietal characters of a cool-climate Sauvignon Blanc.
Varietal Content: 97% Sauvignon Blanc, 3% Semillon
Appellation: Russian River Valley
Titratable Acidity: 0.59 g/100ml
Alcohol: 13%
Residual Sugar: 0. 46 g/100ml
pH: 3.25
Rancho Zabaco wines are available for purchase online at TheBarrelRoom.com.
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