2020 Fiano

98 points, Double Gold, Best White Varietal from the Sunset International Wine Competition!  Best of Class at the 2022 Sierra Foothills wine Fest!

Whole cluster pressed and fermented mostly in a small temperature controlled Stainless Steel tank in the high 50’s. One neutral oak barrel was allowed to ferment with the native yeast to add complexity to the final lot. Post fermentation the wine was aged in a combination of Stainless Steel and neutral oak barrels with partial malo-lactic fermentation and aged for 6 months on the lees. This process enables the wine to be both fresh and aromatic yet rich with a mildly creamy texture. The wine was bottled unfined and filtration only took place to stabilize the wine due to intentionally unfinished malo-lactic conversion. Aromas and flavors of apricot, peach, Meyer lemon, Anjou pear, honey, and jasmine are complimented by subtle notes of thyme and ginger.

Amador Cellars 2020 Fiano, Shenandoah Valley of California, Amador County ($32)
"A distinctive nose of sunflower seed and salted honeydew melon precedes a palate that’s creamy, nutty, and savory. Baked pear and pine nut are coated with creamed corn and orange peel. The flavors have intensity in this complex wine, joined with good body weight and a long finish. 92" Meredith May, The SOMM Journal