2021 Simons Marsanne100% Marsanne, Moon Mountain District

The Vineyard: The Simons Vineyard’s location, both high in the Moon Mountain District and on the floor of an extinct volcanic caldera, presents a unique dichotomy. Traversed by the headwaters of Agua Caliente creek, the caldera is subjected to a pronounced diurnal shift, which aids in grape acid development. The area is noted for jutting basaltic outcroppings that hint at the sparse rocky soil below. The natural bowl forms a microclimate with colder foggy mornings and cooler afternoons than most vineyards within a half mile radius.

The Vintage: The 2021 California growing season saw persistent drought and slightly reduced yields, but the lack of major heat spikes allowed for slow, even ripening. This led to deep flavors, balanced acidity, and refined structure. Bud break began in early April, with 50% veraison by August and harvest mostly after the autumn equinox. A consistent, high-quality vintage producing elegant, sophisticated wines.

Tasting Notes: In the glass, the wine is a soft golden color. On the nose the bouquet is very fragant without being too overpowering, there are nuanced notes of peach, lemon grass, green apple, and honey suckle. The acid is very prominent and bright, the flavor profile then transitions into notes of apple, pear, and stone fruit. The body of the wine is light but lingers, and there's a sublte creaminess ofn the finish. As the wine opens up there are some savory spice notes and fine minerality on the back end.