2013 Jonata, La Flor Sauvignon Blanc Blend, Santa Ynez Valley

Merry Edwards Sauvignon Blanc, arguably one of the best California Sauvignon Blancs, may have met its match with the 2009 Flor by Jonata.
    Flor is a blend of 67% Sauvignon Blanc and 33% Semillon, a classic blend of white Bordeaux varietals. The wine has unbelievable weight and character. While Sauvignon Blanc is often thought of as a summertime white, the Semillon adds a richness and complexity that gives it a wonderful "all-year-round" quality.
    As you may recall from a recent email, Jonata (pronounced "ho-nah-tah") and Screaming Eagle share the same owners and technique: the winemaker of Jonata was the apprentice to Screaming Eagle's current winemaker.
    What makes this white so different from the rest is how light on its feet it is given its considerable substance. Rich and textured fruit are offset by light and flinty characteristics all of which collide in the glass. Succulent peach and white flower are laced with a bright finish. Hints of smoke, quince and floral honey are lifted by anise and dusty minerals. Poached pear on the palate is followed by a finishing jolt of lemon zest adding brightness. Lengthy on the palate, it is spicy and focused, leaving behind notes of honey and ripe citrus elements.
    Enjoy now and over the next 4 years. It is perfect for seafood of any kind, light pasta dishes, salads and as an aperitif.