In the 1983, Bob and Jan MacDonald acquired 28.5 aces of land in Rutherford, Napa Valley which became Round Pond Estate. They sold their fruit to prestigious wineries such as Robert Craig and Duckhorn before second generation, brother-sister duo, Miles and Ryan MacDonnell began managing the estate in the early 2000’s. Miles received his MBA from Boston College while his sister Ryan graduated from Stanford Law with a JD degree. With a deep respect and appreciation of the land, they released the first Round Pond bottling in 2002. Today, there are 362-acres of Rutherford vineyards planted on three distinct alluvial fans along with gardens and olive orchards used to produce artisan foods. Their consulting winemaker is Thomas Rivers Brown.

This bottling is 100% Sauvignon Blanc fermented for 5 months in stainless steel. The pale yellow color opens to fresh aromatics of guava and Granny Smith apples. The mid-palate has a light weighted texture with a hint of herbs, yellow grapefruit and star fruits. There is mouthwatering, juicy acidity that adds balance to the crisp and clean finish.

By W Peter Hoyne