The result, as with the 2017 vintage, is palest yellow, like moonlight. Its aromas are complicated: green-sour like lime peel and wet grass, sweetly floral like lily of the valley and apple blossom, and fruity like pear and quince. The palate feels sharp and malic, while the floral elements play through to the finish, balancing the wine aesthetically. It’s also somewhat slate-y — it’s not Riesling but Riesling-esque, as Kerner can be.
This is a wine for cheese, fried snacks, or nuts; it’ll be cleansing. Or, partner it with light fish, poultry, or salad; it’ll be complementary. I want to try it with something with tarragon.
2018 Sidebar Cellars Kerner Mokelumne River AVA
14.1% abv | $25 (sample), 330 cases made
Fascinating that there is even Kerner planted in the Lodi area. Not much still survives in meaningful German regions. This takes commitment. I applaud that commitment.
That Mokelumne Glen Vineyard has quite a collection of oddities.