Populis 2022 White, California

Vineyard Notes: Grapes for the Populis 2022 White were sourced from 6 vineyards:
Il Mio Vigneto Vineyard, Clement Hills AVA, Lodi, CA (Sauvignon blanc)
Lolonis Vineyard, Redwood Valley AVA, Mendocino CA (Chardonnay)
Searby Vineyard, Sonoma Coast AVA, Sonoma, CA (Chardonnay)
Vista Luna Vineyard, Borden Ranch AVA, Lodi, CA (Albariño)
Hartwick Vineyard, Mokelumne River AVA, Lodi, CA (Orange Muscat)
Inland Vineyard, Redwood Valley AVA Mendocino County, CA (French Colombard) 

From glacial alluvial deposits (Vista Luna) to volcanic uplifts (Il Mio Vigneto), the soils throughout Lodi can be incredibly variable. The hot days bring great phenological ripening conditions, while the Delta breeze cools the vines drastically in the evening, preserving freshness. Searby vineyard is planted on Goldridge soils, which are composed of decomposed sandstone and are well suited to dry-farming. The soils throughout Redwood Valley and the Ukiah/Calpella area are based on sedimentary erosion from eons of glaciers and rainfall in these regions. The proportions of sand, silt and clay vary depending on the site and these variations can have a big impact on the mouthfeel and acid profile of the wines. A blend like the Populis white benefits from this heterogeneity as it gives the wine many layers of flavors and textures.

All the farming is performed strictly according to organic principles and the utmost of care and respect is paid to the local environment.

Winemaking Notes: All of the components were pressed directly and fermented in stainless steel tanks, except for the Orange Muscat, which saw 5 days of maceration before pressing. The components then aged in either Flextanks or stainless steel for 6 months before blending and 18 ppm SO2 was added at that time. 

Tasting Notes: A Cheverny-inspired blend, the mouthfeel is characterized by fresh acidity, while the aromas and flavors strike a balance between greenness and riper opulence, resulting in a style that is uniquely Californian, yet with an old-world approach. The variability of soil types give this wine an additional dimension of depth and complexity. The minimalistic approach in the cellar produces a wine that is highly drinkable and digestible.