2007 Stony Hill Gewurztraminer

We feel lucky to have about two and a half acres of the 1, 670 acres of Gewurztraminer planted in California. Yes, ours is a miniscule portion of the whole Gewurztraminer planting. But then compare that to the 480,000 acre total of wine grapes in the state, and you have to ask yourself, "why so little Gewurztraminer," when with one taste you realize what a distinctive wine it is. We can't answer the profounder Gewurztraminer questions pondered over the years by such eminent wine writers as Hugh Johnson and Bob Thompson. But we can be specific regarding our 2007 vintage. It is palest straw in color with a delicate but persistent bouquet of grapefruit, ripe cantaloupe and the flintiness of just chipped stone. In the mouth its tartness and fruitiness are nicely balanced with flavors of green melon and a hint of clove and white pepper underneath. This is a 'sit on the porch and savor" kind of wine. Despite being 'bone dry," it is so fragrant that its aromas will bring you much pleasure just in themselves. But of course sipping is also allowed! We suggest you pair this wine with a slice of cucumber topped with a crescent of jalapeno chili and a sprinkle of sea salt, or grilled albacore tuna squares with a caper, lemon juice, olive oil and green onion relish.