2010 Moraga White
2010 Moraga White The weather leading up to Moraga’s 2010 vintage was a significant deviation from the norm. There was nothing unusual about the beginning of the growing season – Budbreak and flowering saw the sort of weather patterns that we’ve come to expect, but July was a continuation of the coastal “June gloom” that is so much a part of life this close to Santa Monica Bay. Record low temperatures were recorded on multiple days in July but we also saw a short spurt of heat that created record highs. The overall trend continued into the next month, which proved to be coolest August since records started being kept in 1944. A significant marine layer and associated cool temperatures persisted through most of September. Overall, Bel air saw its coolest summer since 1948. The result of this weather trend was slow ripening with incredible flavor development. We finally picked the entire Sauvignon Blanc crop on September 26th, about three weeks later than most years and the latest start to harvest in Moraga’s history. This unusual vintage produced an incredibly interesting and complex wine. The nose displays purified essence of white peach with undertones of peach cobbler, pineapple, a hint of tangerine, and gingerbread spice. The mineral component is reminiscent of wet slate after a rainstorm. This is an exceptionally rich flavorful wine. The aromas translate precisely to the palate, but additional flavors of white-fleshed plum, citrus and litchi are also found. The texture is round and mouth-filling, supported by a great acid structure and a very long finish. We are fortunate to have what may arguably be one of the most perfect sites in the world for Sauvignon Blanc. The combination of this exceptional site, a season of marvelous weather patterns and a dedicated team have all conspired to make the 2010 vintage very special. We hope that you enjoy the fruits of our effort. To your health and happiness. Tom Jones, Proprietor |