I've been meaning to revisit Kevin White, wondering if my first tasting was a fluke. I was not disappointed. The 2022 Memoire is the solo white they offer, and this mostly Rousanne (touch of Grenache Blanc) was robust but nicely balanced. I was again impressed by this release of Pionnier (Grenache and Mourvedre), and also discovered the 2021 La Fraternite (GSM). A nice release, and very curious about their Weather eye vineyard sourced wines (only for club members). Read on for the detailed tasting.
2022 Memoire
90% Rousanne 10% grenache blanc. Boushey and Olsen Vineyard. Dense nectarine, peach, and hints of pineapple. Mouthfeel is full and slightly creamy. Backbone is accented with Honeysuckle and lemon zest, grassy notes. $25. Score 92.
2021 La Fraternite
GSM (57% Grenache, 35% Mourvedre, 8% Syrah). Tart cherries, rhubarb, sandalwood earth and white pepper. Rounded tannins and balanced acidity providing a nice backbone. $35. Score 92.
2021 Pionnier Boushey Vineyard
85% Grenache 15% Mourvedre. Smooth and silky, floral and herbaceous, showing ripe cherries, strawberry compote, tobacco leaf, black tea accents of white pepper. Finish lingers with smooth tannins, Cocoa nibs. $40. Score 92.
2020 En Hommage Syrah
Boushey and Olsen Vineyard. A refreshing and drier Syrah showing blue and black fruit, and plum aromatized by violet, polished leather, black pepper and sticky tannins. Excellent value. $35. Score 91.
2020 Heritage DuBrul Vineyard
75% Cab 25% Merlot. Soft and velvety, medium body, showing cassis, plum and blackberry. Black tea, light chocolate and black pepper, with drying tannins. $45. Score 90.
