Chateau Montelena Potter Valley Riesling 2022
Chateau Montelena Potter Valley Riesling is one of California’s best-kept secrets. While the historic family estate is famous for putting Napa Valley Chardonnay on the global map, they have been quietly crafting this northern Mendocino white since the 1970s. By sourcing Riesling grapes from the gravelly soils of Potter Valley, they capture the benefit of intense, chilly mountain nights, allowing the fruit to develop deep flavours while keeping its natural crispness. The winemakers ferment and rest the juice entirely in stainless steel tanks, ensuring the natural fruit purity of the Riesling grape remains completely unmasked. In the glass, it reveals sharp aromas of freshly squeezed lime juice, white grapefruit, and a chalky mineral edge that keeps the texture feeling alive. This racing acidity acts like a sharp palate cleanser, making this Chateau Montelena release an absolute masterclass pairing with a traditional fish and chip supper, roast pork, or a simple chicken stir-fry.
