By way of background: Girard Dry Chenin Blanc from Napa Valley is a somewhat unusual pure varietal from Napa, being more often associated with the Loire Valley of France. Chenin Blanc is known for its high acidity, thus often being incorporated into dessert wines to offset the sweetness. The Girard version is dry, however.
Chenin Blanc was more common in the United States up into the 1980's. Playing on that theme, this tasting taps a 1987 vintage that is nothing short of 22 YEARS OLD - a bit of an extreme for a modest Napa-based white wine. But we're nothing here at Spirit of Wine if not oenologically adventurous - so let's see what we've got... In the glass: This vintage Girard Chenin Blanc shows as liquid gold in the glass.
On the nose: Poured cool without a decant and swirled vigorously, this carries a sweet, fresh lavender and olive oil aroma aloft. Unfortunately, a slight corking has occurred with this bottle.
On the palate: The first element on the palate is a bright yet slick mid-tongue flavor of muddled hay and dry orange. The acids follow quickly, running to your cheeks. Squeeeeek...
And the finish: Remains lodged in your cheeks with the acids for what seems like minutes. Fun, almost ticklish.
In summary: Overall, still viable experience - remarkable for a 22 year old American white wine of any varietal.
Find Girard Winery at WineZap.
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