The 2023 vintage was one of the longest growing seasons in more than a decade. With steady and mild weather throughout the season, coupled with a balanced crop load, the 2023 had all the hallmarks of a memorable vintage. Winter and spring rains led to saturated soils and optimal timing for budbreak. Idyllic spring weather maintained healthy canopy growth through bloom and set, while relatively cool weather throughout the growing season allowed sugar accumulation and phenolic ripeness to occur in tandem. The growing conditions and rhythms of the vintage aligned perfectly for Semillon to thrive on our Mt. Veeder Estate. Although traditionally a blending component with other white wine varietals, the harmony of flavors present during tasting inspired us to bottle this as the starring varietal, rather than a minor contributor as part of a larger white wine blend. With only 1.5 acres of Semillon planted on Mt. Veeder, the entirety of the vineyard was harvested on September 20th at perfect ripeness.
The 2023 Crossroads Semillon is inviting and bursting with aromas upon initial inspection. Presenting delicate notes of apple blossoms, fresh snap peas, and lemon verbena, one is transported to the captivating first days of spring. A light aromatic sweetness is intertwined, suggesting hints of honey and juicy cantaloupe, balanced by the crispness of the first bite into a golden apple. The subtle undertone of minerality is reminiscent of crushed gravel and wet stone, completing the multifaceted aromatic profile.
On the palate, this wine is a sensation of flavors and textures as it opens in the glass. Bursting with zesty acidity across the tongue, it highlights notes of granny smith apples and decadent white grapefruit. The wine broadens across the palate with a filling roundness of underripe nectarine and ripe melon, elongated by the lemon pith texture which continue through the finish. This wine culminates with a refreshingly clean finish, leaving a crisp and invigorating sensation across the palate. This wine belongs on the beaches of Northern California with a plate of freshly caught oysters and a warm bouillabaisse cooking in the house to warm up with as the sun begins to set.