Varietal Composition: The dominant grape in our Cristallo blend is the Georgian Rkatsiteli, widely planted in eastern Europe. A high-acid grape of very high quality, its wines are seldom exported. We combine it ( at about 70-90%) with Pinot Blanc, Pinot Grigio and Melon de Bourgogne. Melon is the sole variety in the Loire wine known as Muscadet, sometimes referred to as the quintessential “oyster wine”.

Varietal Composition: Varying anywhere from two thirds Mondeuse and and one-third Carmine to around half and half. Mondeuse is an indigenous red variety from the foothills of the French Alps with deep color and plum or cranberry fruit; Carmine is a University of California two-generation cross: Carignane X Cabernet Sauvignon crossed again with Merlot. Carmine is also dark, with somewhat intense flavors.

What it resembles: Various Tuscan Sangiovese blends, sometimes known as Super-Tuscans. Picked at less than 25% sugar, this wine is more restrained and displays more finesse than many California Sangioveses or Sangiovese blends.

What it resembles: The classic Semillon blends are with Sauvignon Blanc, where Semillon provides body; we take a different path. Imagine good dry Semillon, as from the Southern Hemisphere, plus dry Gewurztraminer, plus dry but fruity Chenin Blanc, topped off with exotic citrus notes from Orange Muscat. Dry though, not sweet.