2018 Rootdown Pinot Blanc Rivin Ranch, California, USAABOUT THIS WINE Planted in 1995, Rivin Ranch Vineyard (ne Shrader Ranch) borders the Russian River on the south end of Ukiah in Mendocino County. Its Russian series soil is deep and well drained, formed in alluvium from sedimentary rock. Once this Pinot Blanc hit the winery, it went direct to the press in order to maintain its natural freshness. The juice was cold settled overnight and then two thirds of it was racked into neutral barrel and the rest

the grapes for this wine underwent a cold soak (cold maceration) at about 10°C for 5–7 days before fermentation

Dominique subtly guides the wine from vine to bottle with little intervention

balancing delicacy and precision with unmistakable terroir expression

there is no batonage

Domaine Laporte is the result of a perfect blending of two renowned Sancerre families

The family practices organic and natural farming

and they met in California 'dragging hoses' in Sonoma for harvest in 2007

and can be found working his vineyards at most any time of day

The grapes for this Syrah were partially destemmed at harvest and fermented using indigenous yeasts in open top vats for two weeks and benefitted from regular punch-downs and pump-overs

The Maiolinis own 24 hectares in more than 24 plots dedicated to Chardonnay

1er Cru Montée de Mileu is a 34 hectare vineyard just southeast of the Grand Crus and enjoys a similar south/southeast exposure as Blanchot

in order to increase finesse and elegance