This estate white blend is grown on Castoro’s 1,500 vineyard acres in western Paso Robles. Farming is organic and SIP (“sustainability in practice”) certified. The blend is 43 percent Grenache blanc, 43 percent Pinot gris, and 14 percent Viognier, all vinified in stainless steel. The Grenache blanc also spends about five months in neutral puncheon.
From an historical perspective, these grapes make strange bedfellows, but it works. The Grenache blanc, which is sometimes fat and flabby, gets a jolt of acid from the Pinot gris. The Viognier adds rounded peachy notes especially to the aromas, plus an unctuous texture that shies from syrup. The overall impression is one of harmony.
It’s a good aperitif wine with cheese and snacks, and is also a good partner for for poultry, curries, pilafs, and gratins. Don’t serve it too cold.
2018 Castoro Cellars Oakenshield Balena White Blend Paso Robles
13% abv | $30 (sample)
Oakenshield? Going for The Hobbit demographic?
I mean, just look at it.