Carlisle "Steiner Vineyard" Gruner Veltliner 2023
(Sonoma Mountain, California) - [JD 93]

About the Winery:
Carlisle is a small Sonoma County winery specializing in the production of old-vine, vineyard designated Zinfandels and red Rhône varieties (Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Petite Sirah). They also produce three delicious white wines, two of which are blends from historic, old-vine vineyards plus Sonoma County's first ever Grüner Veltliner.

About this Wine:
The Terrace Block and Knoll Block tracked similarly in this cool growing season so both were picked on October 13th, the latest by far and a full month and a half later than the previous year.  Each component was fermented separately with the appropriately named German yeast Veltliner, known to reveal and enhance Grüner’s varietal characteristics of pepper and minerality.  The following spring, the final blend was assembled.  No malolactic fermentation.  Not fined but the wine was filtered just prior to bottling to ensure stability.  Aged in all stainless steel.

Tasting Notes:
Pale, straw yellow with a slight tinge of green.  A highly expressive, perfumed nose of green apple, pear, lime, and chamomile.  On the palate, medium-bodied with flavors of green papaya, citrus pith, and fresh herbs.  Finishes with surprising minerality and salinity that brings to mind some of my favorite Albariños from Rías Baixas.  While enjoyable now for its snappy verve, this is a white that will greatly reward with additional bottle age.  Drink from release through 2039. (MRO - 07/16/25)

Technical Information:

Ratings & Reviews

93 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:
"Pouring a medium silver/yellow color, the 2023 Gruner Veltliner Steiner Vineyard is appealing on the nose with aromas of white pineapple, white peach, fresh flowers, candied lime, and lovely, fresh, savory notes of pea shoots. It floats on the palate with a refreshing and balanced feel. It’s another wine with a lot of character now, but readers should not feel rushed to crack into it. Drink 2025-2035" (Jul 2025)