Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/359372
august 2014 / the tasting panel / 1 13 A BALANCED BLEND FRANCISCAN ESTATE 2012 EQUILIBRIUM, NAPA VALLEY ($18) L ocated in the pristine appellation of Oakville, Franciscan Estate has been producing excellent wines since 1975. Janet Myers took the helm as Director of Winemaking in 2005, and since then, she has refocused the team to explore and perfect the incredible fruit produced by the estate. An intriguing blend of 72% Sauvignon Blanc, 17% Chardonnay and 11% Muscat Canelli, the 2012 Equilibrium has Chardonnay that has been barrel-aged for mouthfeel while the rest ferments in stainless steel. With a name that means "a state of harmonious balance" and a quiet 12.5% alcohol, this wine truly is perfect for the warmer weather. The Sippers Say: Big citrus nose; flavors of ripe green fruit, kiwi fruit, soft acid and very light on the palate. —Jared Sowinski Grassy, hay-like aromas; herbal and vegetal. The palate represents differently, with sweet fruit cocktail notes and cotton candy; medium body, with low to medium-minus acidity. —Brent Karliceck Okay, this is delicious. Candied apple, Mandarin orange and a hint of Rainier cherry. Beautiful balance of fruit and acid. Lengthy, pretty finish. —Peter Kasperski A SIGNATURE BLEND TREANA 2012 WHITE, CENTRAL COAST ($17) W hen the Hope family moved to Paso Robles over 30 years ago, they planted apples and grapes—nearly unaware of the wine mecca they had landed on. Today, the apples are gone and the Hope Family now has five wonderful brands to exhibit their incredible wines—the Treana Red and White are their signature blends. The 2012 Treana White is a harmonious blend of 50% Marsanne and 50% Viognier, both of which flourish in the rolling hills of California's Central Coast. After cool- ing the juice, 75% was transferred to French oak (10% new oak) for nine months while the remaining 25% aged in stainless steel. The Sippers Say: Rich, golden hue, with caramelized apple, sweet spice and hints of dried honey. Luscious mouthfeel, layers of concentrated fruit wash over the palate. Somewhat oxidized. Best for dessert of cheese course. —Brent Karliceck Honey on nose and in color. Lemon/red raspberry/agave nectar palate. Dark recesses in the finish like it's hiding something. I want to taste this in 18 months— it seems on the verge of greatness! —Peter Kasperski A great food wine, with a wonderful long finish. —Christopher Gross Matt Hale is the Field Sales Manager, On-Premise, Arizona, for Constellation Brands. Doug Benzenberg is the Regional Sales Manager for Hope Family Wines.