Iconic California family returns to their roots with classic Chenin Blanc expression; paying homage to the past with excitement about the future
Napa, CA – The Mondavi Sisters, owners of the Aloft and Dark Matter wines, today announced the latest additions to their luxury Aloft collection, a Chenin Blanc, which will be the first white wine expression from the sisters, a throwback to original expressions developed by their Grandfather, Peter Mondavi Sr., over 50 years ago.
While still widely grown in other winemaking regions, Chenin Blanc has been surpassed in recent years for the more popular Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay grapes. In fact, the Mondavi sister’s research uncovered that there are less than seven total acres of Chenin Blanc being grown in Napa Valley – making it a true rarity.
“For our first white varietal, we wanted to do something that evoked both our family history and the real roots of this Valley,” said Aloft CEO Alycia Mondavi. “Thanks to the great connections of our sister and winemaker Angelina, we’ve been able to secure fruit from 74-year-old vines grown in Napa Valley. There’s a great possibility our Grandfather sourced fruit from the same vines when he produced his Charles Krug Chenin Blanc in the 60s and 70s. We’re thrilled to bring it full circle for our Aloft customers.”
The Aloft Chenin Blanc was picked on September 3, 2019 and cold fermented (Peter Mondavi, Sr’s contribution to modern day winemaking) in stainless-steel drums and one French Oak barrel. Making up for 10% of the blend, this single French Oak barrel of aged Chenin Blanc contributes an additional layer of complexity and dimension to the mouthfeel, while the stainless-steel fermentation retains the delicate aromas of white and purple floral notes, lime zest and citrus. Angelina’s use of cold fermentation, stainless-steel, and French Oak produced a Napa Valley Chenin Blanc that is crisp and fresh, with vibrant acidity and depth.
“My fondest memories are of sitting with my grandfather, sipping half Chenin Blanc and half water while gazing into the future of our vines” said Aloft winemaker Angelina Mondavi. “Chenin Blanc is a beautiful, expressive white wine that allowed me to reminisce back to when I was a little girl – moments I will always cherish.”
The Chenin Blanc will be available to order in a three-pack starting in March of 2020 with a retail price of $225. Merchants and distributors interested in opportunities to carry Aloft and Dark Matter Wines should inquire at www.aloftwines.com.
