2019 Vinca Minor Old Vine White - Mendocino, CA

Jason Charles worked the vineyards of St. Emilion and then the Sonoma Coast before starting his own label Vinca Minor to “explore the intersection between farmer, winemaker and artist.” All of his wines are made as naturally as possible, and his Old Vine White, a blend of 70% Chardonnay and 30% Sauvignon Blanc, almost like an inverted Cheverny, is no exception. It spends five months in neutral oak, and is unfined and unfiltered at bottling. Medium-bodied with balanced acidity, succulently ripe stone fruits, a dash of tart lemon peel and a whiff of tarragon, it’s perfect for cold poached salmon or a warm, gooey brie.