Region and Vineyards
This cuvée draws its character from two dynamic Californian appellations, each contributing distinct structural and aromatic elements. The Chenin Blanc, which comprises 80% of the blend, is sourced from Clarksburg, a lesser-known gem of the Sacramento River Delta. This area benefits from a moderately long growing season and a unique marine influence. The cooling breezes from the Delta help retain the natural acidity in the grapes, fostering a crisp profile with vivid citrus and orchard fruit notes. Clarksburg has increasingly earned a reputation for expressive Chenin Blanc, and its contribution here underscores the variety’s adaptability to warm, temperate climates.
The Viognier portion, sourced from Lodi, brings a plush, aromatic contrast. This inland region experiences warm days and cool nights thanks to Delta breezes, allowing Viognier to ripen fully while retaining freshness. Known for its Mediterranean climate, Lodi is ideally suited to Rhône varieties, with Viognier showing remarkable floral depth and stone fruit ripeness. Together, these regions provide the yin and yang of the blend: vibrant acidity from Clarksburg and aromatic opulence from Lodi.
Winemaking
The Chenin Blanc grapes were harvested at low sugar levels to preserve freshness, vibrancy, and moderate alcohol. In contrast, the Viognier was picked riper, at 24° Brix, to maximize aromatic complexity, texture, and its hallmark floral character. After gentle pressing, the free-run juice was blended with a portion of press wine to enhance mid-palate weight and texture.
Fermentation was conducted in stainless steel tanks using two specific yeast strains selected to enhance varietal aromatics and preserve purity of fruit. The wine underwent cold fermentation to protect its lively aromatics and vivid fruit profile. There was no malolactic fermentation or oak aging, in order to maintain crispness and the wine’s vibrant, fruit-driven personality. The result is a blend that is both fresh and aromatic, retaining natural acidity with a round and balanced finish.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Pale straw with glints of green, shimmering and youthful in the glass.
- Aroma: Bright and highly expressive with notes of honeysuckle, orange blossom, white peach, nectarine, and a subtle ginger spice.
- Palate: Lively and refreshing with juicy flavors of tangerine, lemon curd, lime zest, and lemongrass, supported by crisp acidity and a rounded mid-palate. Hints of green apple and stone fruit lead to a long, clean finish accented by lingering citrus.
Did you know?
This blend defies French convention by uniting Chenin Blanc and Viognier—two grapes that, while geographically close in their native France, would never share the same bottle. Pine Ridge’s innovation in bringing them together has made CB+V one of California’s most beloved and widely distributed aromatic white blends, earning a cult following for its versatility and aromatic charm.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Thai green curry with shrimp: The wine’s slight sweetness and vibrant acidity balance the heat and coconut richness of the dish.
- Goat cheese, radish, and olive tartines: A playful pairing that highlights the wine’s citrus and floral notes while cutting through the creamy texture.
- Frittata with caramelized onions and ricotta: The richness of the eggs and cheese finds lift in the wine’s bright acidity.
- Shrimp and avocado tostadas: Accentuates the wine’s tropical and citrus tones while complementing the dish’s freshness.
