2015 Birichino, Jurassic Vineyard Old Vines Chenin Blanc, Santa Ynez Valley

Birichino has only been around for 10 years but they have made a very reputable name in that short period of time.  Alex Krause and John Locke decided early on through their wine making all around the world that they would focus on those varietals that they loved and not necessarily the popular ones planted in California.  They are known for their big reds like Grenache, Mourvedre and Cinsault but I have always loved their Chenin Blanc.  Chenin Blanc is mostly known to come from the Loire Valley of France and in South Africa but winemakers in California have been playing with this varietal since the early 1900’s.  In fact, in the 1980s there was more Chenin Blanc planted in California than in France.  Eventually most wineries replaced Chenin Blanc with the more popular Chardonnay grape.  Chenin Blanc was planted in the Jurassic Vineyard in 1978 which made these vines 37 years old when they were harvested.  Because of the age the vines they will produce less fruit but what they do produce is very high quality.  Generally, they harvest enough for 9 barrels or around 216 cases so this is wine is allocated for their wine club.  I was able to procure a few cases of the 2015 vintage, which is outstanding!

Some Chenin Blancs can be on the sweeter side but this is a dry style.  There are notes of lemon and pear on the nose with a nice crisp, mineral finish.  You can sit outside and enjoy this wine while finishing your summer novel and nibbling on a light snack.