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Each of the three Divas (Viognier, Marsanne, Roussanne) would make an impressive wine on their own, yet together their voices create an extraordinary harmony in this delightful white Rhône blend.
In the Vineyard
Located in the alluvial plain of the Russian River Valley just two miles from the river itself, Saralee's Vineyard has deep and fertile soils comprised of gravel, sand, and loam. On summer evenings, the cool fog rushes down the valley from the Pacific Ocean, allowing the grapes an extended growing season. With the long hang time, the grapes develop full flavor maturity while retaining the all-important natural acidity.
The 2010 Vintage
Despite a challenging growing season with cooler than normal summer temperatures and scorching heat as harvest approached, the quality and intensity of the 2010 vintage is outstanding. The Viognier was picked early in October at a moderate Brix with the desired phenolic concentration. The Marsanne was picked a couple of weeks later, again right on target in terms of flavors. The Roussanne, on the other hand, never quite got as ripe as desired, but was picked just before vines completely shut down for the season.
In the Winery
Select grape bunches were hand-harvested before sunrise, and brought to the winery early in the morning while still very cold. The bunches were hand-sorted to remove individual overripe berries, then whole-cluster pressed into a stainless steel tank. After 24 hours the juice was racked into neutral French oak barrels and each of the three varietals was fermented separately. In order to retain its natural acidity, the wine did not undergo malolactic fermentation. The varietals were then blended and bottled early to retain the bright and vibrant fruit characteristics. Filtered.
On your Palate
The vibrant, multi-faceted aroma offers intriguing notes of pineapple, orange blossom, pear, and toasted almonds. The harmonious mouthfeel is medium in weight, with a silky and supple texture whose flavors carry through for a long, fresh finish.
This classic blend of white Rhône varietals, with its elegant yet rich personality, is an excellent match for many meals or even as an aperitif. 3Divas pairs well with crab cakes, curries, grilled swordfish, barbequed oysters, pasta with roasted cauliflower, baked scallops, goat cheese, and avocado salad. Serve slightly chilled.
Technical Information
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| Varietal Blend |
34% Viognier
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33% Marsanne
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33% Roussanne
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| Avg Sugar at Harvest |
22.8° Brix |
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| Alcohol |
14.1% |
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| Cases Produced |
200 |
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| Optimum consumption |
2011-2014 |
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| Cooperage |
100% French |
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| Percentage new oak |
0% |
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| Harvest Date |
October 4–26, 2010 |
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| Bottling Date |
April 2011 |
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| Release Date |
May 2011 |
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© Copyright 2004-2012 Montemaggiore, Inc. All rights reserved.
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