Established in 1969, Cuvaison produces Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grown exclusively on its estate vineyard. It is within in the heart of the world-renown AVA of Carneros in Napa Valley. Cooled by fog from the San Pablo Bay, the rolling hills of this certified sustainable estate has produced distinctive Chardonnay and Pinot Noir for over 30 years. Since the beginning, they have been dedicated to a philosophy of producing vineyard-driven wines, Cuvaison employs block by block farming methods and a hand-crafted vineyard-to-bottle winemaking approach. The resulting wines are balanced and complex, showcasing the distinctive characteristics of this cool climate estate. Cuvaison is part of Cuvaison Estate Wines, the family-owned Napa Valley vintner which also farms Brandlin Vineyard, a Napa Valley estate on Mt. Veeder.

Methode Beton refers to the technique of fermentation and aging in concrete eggs. Due to extended contact on the lees, the concrete eggs impart a rich and distinctive character to the wine. The Cuvaison Methode Beton Los Carneros is a mind-blowing Sauvignon Blanc. It was unique and so delicious with every swirl and taste. The wine is composed of 100% Sauvignon Blanc. The color in the glass reveals light straw. Aromas are bright with notes of honeysuckle, Meyer lemon, kiwi and hints of fresh minerality with chalkiness and flint. The palate is sumptuous and richly focused and creamy. There are hazelnut accents to the wine and a purity of character. Fresh minerality and bright acidity lead to a long finish. You simply want more after each taste. This is one of the most interesting and pure expressions of Sauvignon Blanc I have had to date.
By Perry Miroballi