There's a part of me that feels like this isn't the sort of wine that I should like, but it is so Sauternes-like (and I'm a Sauternes junkie), and I seriously wonder if there is some botrytis influence. Hard core AFWE's will probably not like this, and it definitely goes right up to my "over the top" line, but doesn't actually cross it. The result being, frankly, pretty damn delicious.
Treana, White, Central Coast 2012
50% Marsanne, 50% Viognier. Light golden color. Excellent nose, very rich, loaded with exuberant fruit, and some rather lovely flower nectar aromatics, with a sense of depth; the nose could pass for a Sauternes. On the nose and palate, absolutely packed with orange, apricot, and guava paste, with orange blossom nectar, vanilla, and toward the finish hints of white pepper and nutmeg, all with a touch of salty mineral. Big and ripe, fat and very rich in texture, but with enough acid to keep it fresh; probably has significant residual sugar, but drinks off-dry; its 14.5% alchohol is apparent, but actually adds to the rich texture in rather nice way. In many ways very similar to a Sauternes. Made in an unabashedly ripe, rich, and bold style, but it has good balance and you can’t help but love all that exuberant tropical fruit; would make Napa Valley Chardonnay fans very happy. This is extremely enjoyable stuff. Drink now. 3 Stars [9/18/16]