2022 Napa Valley Lion Tamer White Blend

NAPA VALLEY LION TAMER WHITE BLEND

The Lion has been the emblem of the Hess Family in every generation. It has come to symbolize the bold and persevering nature of founder Donald Hess and our winery home on Mount Veeder. On Mount Veeder, our vineyards reflect our founder’s vision of winemaking and grape-growing working in harmony to reveal the best expressions of mountain fruit. Donald Hess recognized early on the unique attributes of rugged vineyards planted in sparse soils at high altitude, revealing Mount Veeder’s distinctive personality. The Lion Tamer White Blend highlights the unique white varieties we grow in our estate vineyards.

TASTE WITH THE WINEMAKER

“This winery-only blend is a beautiful combination of Chardonnay, Albariño, Pinot Gris and Sauvignon Blanc. Delicate aromas of citrus blossom, jasmine and lemon entice each sip from the glass. On the palate, The Lion Tamer White Blend has an opulent viscosity filled with refreshing notes of Meyer lemon, Asian pear and a hint of Oro Blanco grapefruit which finishes with a pleasing, mouth-watering acidity.”         

– Stephanie Pope, Winemaker

VINTAGE NOTES

Vintage 2022 began with a warm spring and little rain. By the time fall was kicking off a heat wave came through around Labor Day weekend, then shifted back to temperate conditions. This resulted in lower yields with small berries that were packed with intensely lush flavor. Early ripening, sunny summer heat, and a lack of water were balanced out by a very welcomed cool ending to the fall season. The extreme fall weather created interesting conditions for our fruit to steady and allowed us to harvest at the optimal moment to make a beautifully balanced wine. Vintage 2022 will continue to be celebrated for its dense fruit, bold structure and unforgettable complexity.