2023 Inglenook Napa Valley Rutherford Blancaneaux

EN PRIMEUR DISCOUNT VALID UNTIL 1/11/2025 AND WHILE STOCKS LAST - EXPECTED DECEMBER 2025. PRICES FOR EN PRIMEUR ARE EXTRA DORDRECHT. AS A FREE SERVICE, THE WINES CAN BE CONDITIONED AND SAFELY STORED BY US SO THAT THEY CAN BE PICKED UP ON OCCASION OR SHIPPED AT COST BY ARRANGEMENT.

the story of inglenook

Inglenook is one of Napa Valley's most historic estates. It was founded in 1879 by Finnish sea captain Gustave Niebaum, who wanted to make world-class wine in California. Since the 1990s, Inglenook has been under the care of the Coppola family, who restored the estate and repositioned it as a Napa icon. Today, Inglenook combines tradition with modern precision and a strong focus on terroir expression. The Blancaneaux, introduced in 1999 as a white counterpart to the famous Rubicon, is among the region's most refined white wines.

the terroir of Rutherford

The Blancaneaux vineyards are located in Rutherford, at the foot of Mount St. John. The grape varieties benefit from full morning sun, while the mountain's afternoon coolness ensures a long and balanced ripening process. The soils consist of alluvial deposits with good drainage, ideal for preserving freshness and aromatic tension. This unique terroir gives the wine its characteristic balance of richness and finesse.

the grapes and the 2023 harvest

The 2023 Blancaneaux is composed of 40% Viognier, 33% Marsanne, and 27% Roussanne. The vintage was characterized by a wet winter and a cool spring, resulting in even development and late flowering in June under ideal conditions. Harvest took place between September 19th and 28th, with the grapes achieving an optimal balance of ripeness and freshness. Marsanne and Roussanne contribute body and minerality, while Viognier provides aromatic intensity and fruity elegance.

vinification and maturation

After being harvested by hand, the grapes were fermented partly in stainless steel and partly in French oak barrels. The wine was aged on lie for eight months, 46% in stainless steel, 22% in new French oak, and 32% in neutral barrels. This combination preserves the purity of the fruit, while the oak aging adds complexity and texture. The result is a wine with both freshness and depth, instantly charming yet also capable of several years of bottle aging.

color, smell and taste

The 2023 Blancaneaux opens with aromas of white flowers, lemon, and a subtle spiciness of coriander. The nose also reveals light notes of toasted marshmallow and ginger, as highlighted in The Wine Advocate's review. On the palate, viognier offers a soft, rounded texture, while Marsanne and Roussanne provide structure and a mineral backbone. The finish is long, fresh, and chalky with a hint of lime. The overall effect feels more spacious and full-bodied than its 13.7% alcohol content suggests, with an elegant balance between aromatic intensity and freshness.

reviews and storage potential

The Wine Advocate awarded the 2023 Blancaneaux 92 points. Critic Joe Czerwinski praised the wine for its balanced style, floral notes, hint of ginger, and mineral finish. Its aging potential is between 2025 and 2032, during which time the wine will retain its fresh character while also developing additional complexity. For lovers of white Rhône blends from California, this is a textbook example of elegance and balance.

Order Inglenook wines online?

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you these when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway with ample parking. Click here for our address. You can read full wine reviews from publications like Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator.

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wine and food pairings

• Grilled scallops with lime butter – the freshness and texture of the wine enhance the delicate sweetness of the scallops.
• Chicken fillet with lemon and tarragon – the spicy notes complement the floral and herbal accents of the wine.
• Risotto with green asparagus and Parmesan – the creamy texture is balanced by the fresh, mineral finish.
• Cod with saffron sauce – the aromatic richness of the wine complements the spiciness of the saffron beautifully.
• Grilled vegetables with olive oil and thyme – the earthy notes are refreshed by the citrusy tension of the wine.
• Soft goat's cheese or young Comté – the creamy, slightly salty flavours harmonise with the length and spiciness.