Santa Barbara County
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Botrytis is a mold that grows on grapes and is not that common in California. Usually when it appears it’s called bunch rot, because secondary infections of bacteria and less desirable molds get in there and turn the clusters into a vinegary mess. Rarely, when the right conditions prevail the botrytis grows and then weather conditions get dry and the botrytis, having poked tiny holes in the berries, causes them to raisin. As the berries raisin the sugars and acidity concentrate–when this happens in Europe it’s called the noble rot and is responsible for some of the finest dessert wines made.

Blend: 100% Riesling | Alc: 10.0% | Vinification: 100% Neutral French Oak | Barrel Aging: 7 Months | Total Production: 118 Cases (325 ml Bottles)

Press Reviews

Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar

“Vivid gold. Musky orange pith, pit fruits and candied fig on the nose, complicated by hints of honey and melon. Broad, creamy and expansive, with surprisingly energetic flavors of candied peach, tangerine and jasmine. Graceful and precise for a sweet wine, finishing with very good sappy persistence.”- JR 93 Points

Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

“The 2011 Riesling Kick On Ranch Special Botrytis Bottling emerges from the glass with peach, apricot, white flowers and light floral honey scents. The aromas and flavors are very much on the bright end of the spectrum, while the botrytis notes lie in the background.” – RP 90 Points