- Wines

2022 Gist Ranch Estate 'Alma' White
Vineyard
The vineyard was densely planted in the year 2000 at elevations reaching 2300 feet above sea level, 17 miles inland from the Pacific Ocean. The heavily fractured, vaqueros sandstone soils and unique mountain micro-climate produce singular, deeply concentrated wines that demonstrate the power and elegance of the Santa Cruz Mountains appellation.
Winemaker Notes
The 2022 was defined by a record breaking heat event over a ten day period surrounding labor day. We experienced some of the hottest days (and nights) we have seen in our 40 plus years of farming in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Our harvest team worked tirelessly to bring in the bulk of our fruit in a two week window; for comparison, that window is often six to eight weeks in length. Yields were already lower due to a very late frost weather event that spring, damaging the young inflorescences. The intense heat further reduced our crop, especially in our nearly ripe Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. While the quantities are greatly reduced the wines are undoubtedly delicious. The vintage is more forward and sit on larger frames than is our norm. They are drinking very well in their youth and have notable concentration and intensity.
Technical Data
Vintage
2022
Varietal
Sauvignon Blanc
Appellation
Santa Cruz Mountains
Vineyard Designation
Gist Ranch Estate
Acid
6.8
pH
3.1
Alcohol %
14.90
Other Notes
The 2022 White Blend Alma Gist Ranch Estate is absolutely enticing, if ever so slightly less
concentrated and persistent than the 2021 tasted alongside. A blend of 40% Sauvignon Blanc,
39% Sémillon and 21% Sauvignon Musqué, it delivers an attractive, broad, mouth-lling array of
plump nectarine, ripe apricot, honeycomb, chamomile and a slight waxiness. Sweet fruit and orals
perfume this from the inside out, and propulsive acidity drives through the nish without pushing
too hard. This is elegant and voluptuous yet carefully proportioned through and through. It’s not
the most varietal wine, but honestly, I don’t really care—this is quite good. 94 points. Billy Norris, Vinous.