Gardacho Garnacha Blanca (2022) – Saenz-Olazabal’s Gardacho Blanca takes its name from a mythical dragon/lizard creature that the local children enjoy telling stories of. This 100% expression of the local Garnacha Blanca grape comes from a small plot where Cabernet Sauvignon grew for just over 20 years before it was re-grafted to plant this famous Spanish white grape. This north facing sloped vineyard sits at about 600 meters above sea level, and was hand harvested, brought into the cellar for about a day of cold maceration, and fermented naturally in stainless steel tanks. After the fermentation was finished, the juice remained in contact with its fine lees for about 2 months. The finished wine has beautiful lime and honeydew rind aromas, wet stones, and hints of boxwood. On the palate, it is mineral driven with accents of citrus and melon, fresh acidity, and has a mouth feel that is robust but dances lightly on the tongue. It has a long lingering finish that showcases the crisp fruit as well as the intense mineral components of the wine.
