2019 Wabi Sabi
Raison d’être
Wabi Sabi is a Japanese aesthetic that reveres the “imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete”. This reflects our philosophy behind the wine. It is a blend that is made without a plan. Decisions are made throughout élevage (aging) as we become familiar with the personality of each lot. This is unusual for traditional, conservative, methodical Linden Vineyards.
Style
This is a big textured white wine with a very generous mouth feel. There is ample acidity and tannin length to carry its weight. Aromas and flavors include stone dust, apple skins, nutmeg and pear liqueur.
Grapes
Vidal Blanc 46%: One of France’s illegal grapes (now banned in France from planting). Cuttings were smuggled into the US after World War II. The vines at Linden’s Hardscrabble vineyard were planted in the 1980’s and 1990’s. Vidal Blanc is the foundation for the texture and structure of Wabi Sabi.
Sémillon 16%: The forgotten stepsister of Bordeaux contributes elegance and restraint to the blend. Grapes are sourced from a tiny planting at Hardscrabble.
Viognier 22%: The enigma grape that sommeliers take pride on being able to pronounce. However, pairing with food remains elusive. The Viognier grapes come from a small planting at Boisseau Vineyard. Viognier adds aromatic complexity and power to the blend.
Petit Manseng 15%: Originally from French the foothills of the Pyrenees, This grape contributes aromatic complexity and powerful acidity. From Hardscrabble Vineyard.
Winemaking
Bottled February 2021. 2,750 bottles produced. Alcohol 15.2%. Drink 2021 through 2025.
Linden Vineyards / Our Wines / 2019 Vintage | 2019 Wabi Sabi