World renowned. Washington grown.
2005 Grand Estates Sauvignon Blanc
Tasting Notes
“ This Sauvignon Blanc was crafted to emphasize its fresh, slightly grassy character, without compromise to richness and fruit focus. Honey nuances accent lively, tropical flavors. Its crisp and balanced quality confirms its distinctive New World style. The bright fruit flavors end with a crisp, refreshing finish.”-Ray Einberger, Winemaker 
Growing Season
- August 15 marked the beginning of the earliest harvest on record.
- Warm summer months contributed to the uniformity of berry maturation.
- A temperature drop in late summer cooled the vineyards and allowed the grapes extra hang time to enhance flavor and aromatic development.
- Moderate weather conditions during harvest contributed to mature fruit with intense flavors, good sugar development, and high natural acidity across varietals.
Vineyards
- Premium vineyards throughout the Columbia Valley are sources for Columbia Crest’s Grand Estates Sauvignon Blanc
- Vineyards are seated east of the Cascade Mountain range. Up to 14,000 feet high, the mountains effectively block eastward- moving wet weather systems from the Pacific Ocean.
- Just 6 to 8 inches of rainfall reach the growing region annually. Vineyards are 100% drip irrigation.
- The soils have low fertility and low water-holding capacity, allowing precise control of vine growth patterns.
- Vines are planted north to south on south and southeast facing slopes.
Vinification
- Grapes were pressed, cold-settled, and racked off the solids into temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks.
- Inoculation with selected yeast strains to enhance varietal character began the 14-20 day cool fermentation in stainless steel.
- A portion of finished wine was aged in barrels, adding complexity and enhancing mouth-feel.
- Extreme caution was exercised to prevent malolactic fermentation, thus preserving the crisp acid and fresh flavors.
Technical Data
- Total acidity: 0.60 g/100ml
- Residual Sugar: 0.65 g/100ml
- pH: 3.15
- Alcohol: 13.5%