2013 Sauvignon Blanc Georgia
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Tasting notes
The 2013 Sauvignon Blanc Georgia, 100% from the Totem Vineyard in Yountville (note the change from the Gamble Vineyard), is also 100% Sauvignon Blanc, but treated identical to the older vintages, being fermented in 100% French oak, where it was aged an additional 18 months prior to bottling. The wine shows notes of caramelized citrus, a touch of orange rind and marmalade, with medium to full body, beautiful acidity, striking concentration and a long, long finish.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
A rich, textured wine, the 2013 Sauvignon Blanc Georgia is intense, but not as intense as it has been in the past. Candied lemon, spice, French oak and mint meld together in an ample, generous Sauvignon Blanc. Today, the 2013 comes across as quite reserved, shy and a bit disjointed, perhaps because of its relatively recent bottling. The Georgia typically benefits from a few years in bottle, so hopefully that will be the case here as well. As always, the Georgia is a fairly unctuous, oily Sauvignon Blanc, although as mentioned above, those qualities aren't especially apparent today.
Lail's 2013 Sauvignon Blanc Georgia shows its typical textural breadth and richness, but the flavors have an extra kick of brightness in this vintage that is quite welcome. White flowers, sage, mint and a host of varietal notes inform the expressive, intense finish. The 2013 is shaping up to be a real beauty. Stylistically, the 2013 is a bit fresher and more chiseled than the 2012, although both wines are striking.