Small Napa White wins in wine stampede!

I rarely, if ever conduct blind tastings of Sauvignon Blancs, but decided to give it a try when a bunch of Francophiles challenged me to go head-to-head with California.  A few of my “French” friends provided “their” wines and I sourced the local market.  As you know I don’t stock the big names, I wanted to include some in this tasting to see how they would do against the French and small, boutique producers.  Since Brian Malk is from South Africa, I decided to include a well-rated white from there as well.

  • Peter Michael Winery Sauvignon Blanc l’Apres Midi (94 Pts Parker)
  • Domaine Pascal Cotat Sancerre les Mont Damnes 94 Pts Parker
  • Duckhorn
  • Cakebread
  • Louis-Benjamin Dagueneau Sancerre Monts Damnes (a very expensive $120.00, 95 Pts Parker)
  • Domaine Claude Riffault Sancerre les Desmalets (93 Pts Parker)
  • Peirson Meyer Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley Ryan (93 Pts WS)
  • Reyneke Reserve White Stellenbosch (93 Pts WS)
  • Merry Edwards
  • Malk 2011 Sauvignon Blanc

The winner, by a long shot MALK 2011 Sauvignon Blanc!

A native of South Africa, Brian Malk continues a family tradition of grape growing started by his grandfather who owned a wine farm (vineyard) in Franschhoek, near Capetown. Brian moved to the United States in 1978 and is now residing in Napa Valley as well as San Diego. Brian and Nancy purchased the Stags Leap property for Malk Family Vineyards in 1997 and began planting in 1998.

Malk 2011 Sauvignon BlancMalk 2011 Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley
Retail 35.00 – GGWC 31.99 (FREE SHIPPING on 12)
Use the discount code “Malk01SB12” during checkout.

Our friends at Malk produced a stunning wine.  The Aromas of peaches and melons are gorgeous and elegant jumping right out of the glass.  On impact this well-made youngster tickles the palate with flavors of fresh apricots, honeydew, orange blossom and a touch of minerality.  Medium weight, this wine has good body with its hallmark Sauvignon Blanc crisp flavors.  The finish is silky and long lasting.  Only 278 cases produced!

Also check out the 2008 Malk Cabernet Sauvignon!

Click here or on the links above to order!