2010 Briceland Vineyards Spirit Canyon Vineyard Mendocino County Arneis

Table wine, $17. Arneis is often called the “white Nebbiolo.” This Italian grape was discovered sparsely interplanted with Nebbiolo grapes in the Italian Piedmont region. Some say because the grape ripens earlier than black Nebbiolo, it was offered to marauding bees plaguing the vineyards. Recently the grape has found its way to California where it is planted along the Russian River south of Ukiah by Glenn McGourty at his Spirit Canyon Vineyard. · Pale straw color with a hint of peach shade in the glass. Aromas of green apple, baked pear and marzipan. Light to medium-weighted and creamy on the palate with flavors of green apple, pear, apricot and a slightly grassy, nutty note. An easy drinking wine that would be an ideal aperitif or the perfect accompaniment to shellfish. Surprise your friends! Very good. Reviewed November 2, 2011

Winery: Briceland Vineyards
From article: Wines Off The Beaten Track