It is no secret that I am a fan of Napa Valley’s historic Inglenook estate in Rutherford. The Rubicon red blend was one of my first ah-ha wines. I remember drinking it at this adorable wine bar in Dallas with my old friend Becky twenty plus years ago when my palate was young, my curiosity was high, and my passion for wine was just igniting.

To match their bold, powerful, yet always elegant Rubicon red, the winery introduced Inglenook Blancaneaux ($65) in 1999 as their luscious, layered white blend. Textured, balanced, and well-rounded, the wine showcases a blend of Rhone white varieties, including Roussanne, Marsanne, and Viognier, the first two giving volume and richness, with the later adding fresh aromatics and juicy fruit-forward flavors.

Currently on the 2018 vintage, the wine reveals a bright mineral note of crushed stone, with tropical and stone fruit, with subtle honeysuckle and lemon blossom notes. We opened a bottle of the 2014 Blancaneaux ( the other evening, as I often like to allow a white wine to age in the bottle a bit before enjoying. The wine was beautiful, slightly more honey notes vs. honeysuckle, candied ginger, and warm spice.

This Wednesday the winery will host an interactive wine trivia and virtual tasting on Wednesday, June 24 at 3pm PST. Hosted by our Wine Educators David Mayer and Stephanie Morgan, we’re talking about all things Napa Valley. You’ll guess your way from when the first grapes were planted in Napa Valley to how many cases of wine are in a barrel. To sign up follow the link here, and be sure to pick up a bottle or two of Inglenook to enjoy while you play along. #cheers!