2023 Clendenen Family Vineyards Chenin Blanc Rancho La Cuna

Chenin Blanc, a versatile grape from France’s Loire Valley, caught the attention of Jim Clendenen. Known for his experiments with cool-climate wines on the central coast, Jim planted Chenin on a sunny slope in the Los Alamos Valley. In 2015, the Clendenen family planted Chenin Blanc at their Rancho La Cuna estate, known for its innovative, “cool” varieties. The first dry, barrel-fermented vintage was such a success that Jim expanded the vineyard. Known for its delightful fruity character and excellent food compatibility, the 2023 release marks the sixth vintage of Rancho La Cuna’s Chenin Blanc.

• Origin: Santa Barbara County
• Vineyard: Rancho La Cuna
• Variety: 100% Chenin Blanc
• Wood aging: 8 months in François Frères French oak barrels

The Chenin Blanc comes from nine-year-old vines on our Rancho La Cuna estate in the Los Alamos Valley. The grapes are hand-harvested, whole-pressed, and fermented in François Frères oak barrels. After malolactic fermentation, the wine is sulfured and rested “sur lie.” The wine is then returned to the barrel and aged for a total of 8 months in neutral French oak barrels before bottling.

Tasting notes
The Clendenen Family Vineyards Chenin Blanc Rancho La Cuna is a refined bouquet of wildflowers, quince paste and roasted chestnuts comes straight to the fore. The palate offers lingering notes of lemon mousse and orange blossom. This lively Chenin Blanc has a layered profile, with a firm acidity that hints at further complexity as the wine ages.

Dish combinations
This Chenin Blanc is best served with fresh dishes. Combine with a peach and burrata salad, a seafood risotto or smoked turkey.

FACT: In the tab 'Attachments' you will find the official fact sheet of this beautiful wine. We will automatically send you this when you order this wine. The wine is in our conditioned Wine Warehouse and if you come to pick up the wine you will often also receive a nice discount . You will see your discount immediately when you choose 'Pick up' on the checkout page. We are located in Dordrecht almost next to the A16 with plenty of parking. Click here for our address.