Appearance: Brilliant pale straw with silver-green highlights and exceptional clarity.
Nose: Vibrant and aromatic with layers of citrus (Meyer lemon, grapefruit), tropical fruit (guava, passion fruit), and fresh floral notes (elderflower, jasmine). Secondary aromas reveal hints of white peach, freshly cut grass, and a subtle flinty minerality that adds complexity and intrigue.
Palate: Medium-bodied with bright, refreshing acidity balanced by a round, supple texture. The entry presents crisp citrus flavors (lemon, lime zest) complemented by tropical nuances (pineapple, lychee) and green apple freshness. The mid-palate develops with subtle herbaceous notes (lemongrass, fresh basil) characteristic of premium Sauvignon Blanc, while showing restraint that allows the fruit character to shine. The texture shows impressive depth and dimension from thoughtful winemaking that enhances the wine's natural vibrancy.
Finish: Clean and persistent with lingering citrus notes, a touch of white peach, and refreshing acidity that gradually fades, leaving a balanced impression that combines California fruit expression with elegant structure.
Producer: Peju Province Winery
Region: North Coast, California (Napa, Sonoma, and Lake Counties)
Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Vintage: 2022
Alcohol: 13.8% ABV
Fermentation: Primarily stainless steel with a small portion in neutral French oak
Aging: 4 months with partial lees contact
Production: Limited production
Closure: Natural cork
The 2022 Peju Sauvignon Blanc North Coast sources fruit from select vineyards across California's prestigious North Coast appellation, blending the distinctive characteristics of sites in Napa, Sonoma, and Lake Counties. This multi-region approach creates a complex, balanced wine that showcases the diversity and quality of California's premier growing regions.
The 2022 growing season in the North Coast brought welcome winter rainfall that replenished groundwater supplies after several drought years. A mild spring led to even budbreak and fruit set, while moderate summer temperatures with few heat spikes allowed for gradual ripening and excellent flavor development without excessive sugar accumulation—ideal conditions for aromatic white varieties like Sauvignon Blanc.
Harvested in the cool early morning hours to preserve freshness and aromatic intensity, the fruit was gently whole-cluster pressed and cold-settled before fermentation. The majority of the juice underwent temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel tanks (55-58°F) to preserve vibrant fruit character and varietal purity, while a small portion fermented in neutral French oak barrels to enhance textural complexity without introducing prominent oak flavors.
Following fermentation, portions of the wine remained in contact with fine lees for approximately 4 months with periodic gentle stirring, developing additional complexity and mouthfeel while maintaining the wine's bright fruit expression and varietal character.
Founded in 1983 by Tony and Herta Peju, Peju Province Winery has evolved into one of Napa Valley's respected family-owned estates. With their distinctive tower-shaped tasting room designed by renowned architect Calvin Straub, the Rutherford property has become an iconic landmark along Highway 29 in the heart of Napa Valley.
The winery remains family-owned and operated with second-generation family members Ariana and Lisa Peju now leading the business. Their approach emphasizes sustainable farming, meticulous attention to detail in the vineyards, and a winemaking philosophy that balances respect for tradition with thoughtful innovation.
While Peju established its reputation primarily through Bordeaux red varieties grown on their Rutherford and Carneros estates in Napa Valley, their Sauvignon Blanc program has garnered increasing acclaim for its balanced expression of varietal character. The North Coast bottling represents their commitment to sourcing exceptional fruit beyond their estate vineyards when it allows them to create wines of distinctive quality and value.
Under the guidance of winemaker Sara Fowler (2006-2021) and now winemaker Andrew Blodgett, Peju's white wine program emphasizes freshness, aromatic intensity, and textural balance—creating wines that showcase both varietal purity and regional character.
