The 2023 vintage was one of the longest growing seasons in a decade or more. With steady and mild weather throughout the season, alongside a balanced crop load, 2023 will be a vintage to remember. Winter and spring rains led to saturated soils and ideal timing for budbreak. The perfect spring weather maintained healthy canopy growth through bloom and fruit set, while relatively cool weather throughout the growing season allowed sugar accumulation and phenolic ripeness to occur in tandem. Waiting was the hardest part of the 2023 harvest, and on September 14th, we brought in 1.2 tons of Ribolla Gialla, keeping it separate from the other white grape varieties to allow for a true varietal expression to occur. We were lucky enough to make slightly more than the previous vintage and utilize different aging techniques, such as neutral oak, to add more texture and body to the vintage.
The 2023 Crossroads Ribolla Gialla is spring sunshine in a glass! Aromatically forward with intriguing depth and subtle nuances, one is met with the crispness of underripe nectarine and the floral sweetness of honeysuckle. Subtle green notes of fresh watercress and the distinctive zest of kaffir lime add complexity, while a hint of green tea rounds out the nose. On the palate, expect a vibrant experience with high acidity and a lively texture, which keeps each sip refreshing. The flavors unfold with a juicy burst of apricot and tangerine, balanced by the slight phenolic note of lemon pith. A youthful minerality ties everything together, creating an invigorating finish. This wine is perfectly balanced by a plate of Hamachi crudo or a bowl of spicy ceviche, with the fattiness of the fish pairing impeccably with the freshness of the wine.