Kunin Wines, Pape Star Blonde

Pape Star Blonde is the counterpoint to Kunin’s wildly popular Pape Star Rhone blend. This wine again follows the lead of the Southern Rhone icon, Chateauneuf du Pape, featuring Grenache in the staring role. In addition to the white Grenache, Roussanne is added to give the wine extra depth and richness. Unlike in France, where white Rhones can often be oily and brooding, the cool coastal breezes of Santa Barbara keep the wine crisp and balanced. This allows Pape Star Blonde to shine with a wide array of foods from roast poultry to shellfish and seafood.

Varietals: 80% Grenache Blanc / 20% Roussanne

Vineyards: Two Wolves, Mesa Verde, McGinley, Camp Four

Farming: Organic

Vinification: Whole cluster pressed into tank for 24 hours; racked to barrel for primary fermentation; no malo

Aging: 5 months sur lie in neutral oak before racking, filtering and bottling