Las Jaras Chenin Blanc 2022

Inspired by Joel’s spirited five-year-old daughter Cézanne, this Chenin Blanc has a bold personality that’s as memorable as it is compelling. It’s a wine that keeps you captivated with layers of intense minerality balanced by savory undertones that linger with power and precision. This addition to the Las Jaras lineup embodies the style of complex, savory whites that Joel and Eric have long admired.

Vineyard Origins:
The fruit for this Chenin Blanc comes from the Norgard Vineyard in Talmage, Mendocino, established in 1980 with a quadrilateral cordon system that was popular at the time. This conventionally farmed vineyard yields grapes that are carefully harvested for balance and purity.

Winemaking Approach:
To craft a Chenin Blanc with brightness, depth, and a distinct mineral edge, the focus was on preserving fresh flavors and high acidity while avoiding oxidative aromas. The grapes were picked at 18.5 Brix, just as a hint of ripe fruit flavor emerged. Whole-cluster pressing minimized skin contact and kept the wine vibrant. Fermentation took place in two concrete eggs and a new demi-muid, with the wood imparting subtle roundness to balance the mineral-driven structure. Apart from a touch of sulfur before bottling, this wine is entirely untouched—no fining, filtering, or additives.

Aging Potential:
With proper storage at a cool, stable temperature, this Chenin Blanc will continue to evolve beautifully over several years. The choice of cork minimizes oxygen exchange, allowing the wine to mature gracefully without losing freshness.

Tasting Notes:
This Chenin Blanc offers waves of Comice pear and wet stone on the nose, followed by layers of dried white peach, apricot, white cherry, and nuances of toasted almond and clove. The finish is long and beautifully mineral, with a touch of salinity and refreshing acidity that leave you wanting more. It’s a textural experience for those who appreciate wines with both richness and tension.

Food Pairing Suggestions:
This wine pairs wonderfully with dishes that showcase fresh, bright flavors, like fish tacos, oysters, salads, and grilled vegetables or seafood. The vibrant acidity and minerality enhance these light, summery foods, making each sip as exciting as the last.