Kinsman Eades Aisana Rancho Pequeno Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc Oakville 2023

If you've met Nigel and Shae Kinsman, you have witnessed and experienced their natural ability to make you feel welcome in their lives, as if a kindred spirit resides within them, opening the door to share in their accomplishments, talents, fastidious practices, and friendship. Sipping a glass of Nigel and Shae's exquisitely crafted wine transcends the average wine-tasting experience, seemingly connecting us with their energy and ethos and granting a sense of contentment. We have delightfully watched over the years as their individual and shared wine journeys led them to where they are now.

Some of you may know Nigel Kinsman from his winemaking days at Krupp Brothers or Araujo Estate. Today he is at the helm of Accendo Cellars & J.H. Wheeler, Bart & Daphne Araujo's new ventures, and Impensata. Perhaps you have become acquainted with his darling wife Shae as well? We came to know her when she was the General Manager at Abreu Vineyards, offering us our annual, immensely sought-after allocation. Together they are a truly lovely couple with roots that reach far beyond the Napa Valley, and with skills that embrace lessons from different continents. In 2016 they thoughtfully and faithfully launched two wines under their label Kinsman Eades. Nigel describes the ethos of their wines as "site-driven, singular expressions of origin and history. Our winemaking is attentive, but never heavy-handed. We aren't chasing perfection; we are chasing character." It is about the year-long growing process and letting "the fruit lead the way, resisting the urge to polish away the most interesting edges.”

We are pleased to offer this exquisite white wine blend to a small group of wine lovers. The production of 2023 Kinsman Eades Aisana was small, so we recommend swift action before the entirety of the vintage is tucked away in enthusiasts' homes for future enjoyment.  A striking blend of 75% Sauvignon Blanc with 25% Semillon, the grapes were all sourced from Bart and Daphne Araujo's Rancho Pequeno estate vineyard in Oakville. The wine was aged in new and seasoned barriques for eight months. Scents of stone fruit, lemon curd, citrus, and fig highlight the aromatics while the medium-bodied palate creates a generous, luxurious, and silky finish. Sauvignon Blanc fans need not look further for complete indulgence.