The 2011 Sauvignon Blanc McGinley Vineyard is a gorgeous effort that was barrel-fermented and had malo blocked. Offering up perfumed, mineral-laced white grapefruit, herbs and citrus rind, it is lean and racy on the palate with vibrant acidity and superb purity. A perfect meal starter, enjoy it over the coming couple of years. Drink now-2015.
This was one thrilling lineup of wines by Adam Tolmach and assistant winemaker Fabien Castel and this is always one of my favorite visits during my trip through the region. After making wine for close to 30 years, Adam continues to push for improvement and is subtly tweaking his wines to get more freshness, focuses and elegance out of them. Minimal new oak, low SO2 and few rackings are all the norm here, and these 2009s, 2010s and 2011s are some of the strongest wines I’ve tasted from this estate. They’re all highly recommended.
Tel. (805) 798-3947; www.ojaivineyard.com