Wine Enthusiast:  Rated as Superb, one of the greats.  "This is a blend of 92% Sauvignon Blanc and 8% Sémillon. It was partially barrel-fermented and then aged on the lees. It is a very great example of its genre, one of the best in memory. Shows intricate layers of Meyer lemons, kefir limes and white peaches, offset by crisp acidity and minerals but softened with buttercream and buttered toast. A vibrant, immaculate wine, one of the Sauvignon Blanc stars of the vintage. Editors’ Choice." Apr 2010

Winery:  “Bright citrus and lime zest aromas dance alongside herbs and an intriguing steely note on the nose. The first sip unveils nectarine and stone fruit with tangy pomelo and grapefruit flavors balancing the wine’s ample body and complexity. A mouthwatering, lingering finish persists with citrus and mineral notes.  Sauvignon Blanc, including some Sauvignon Musque clone, and Semillon grapes were hand harvested, whole-cluster pressed and protected from oxygen to retain aromatics and freshness. The wine was then put into three different fermentation vessels with both native and cultured yeasts to develop a wine with complex aromatic and flavor facets. Concrete eggs develop richness on the palate, stainless steel tanks reveal the purity of fruit, and neutral Frenchoak barrels add body and texture without a distinct oak character. A touch of Semillon provides a round mouthfeel and opulent honeyed notes that counter the vibrant, tangy Sauvignon Blanc. Lees stirring in tank and barrel adds complexity, depth and enriches an already full mouthfeel.”

Wired For Wine:  Just like the editor's at Wine Enthusiast, we choose the Illumination Sauvignon Blanc by Huneeus Vintners of Quintessa fame.  As we are delighting in chilling our whites to accompany the warmer temperatures, we would be remiss if we didn't invite you to savor this crisp, fresh and complex Sauvignon Blanc with it's gorgeous citrus and stone fruit layers and perfectly balanced acidity and minerality.  Pour the first bright glasses and serve them with a French Brandade, a heaven-sent puree of potato, garlic and salt cod.  A salmon tartare with black sesame, Nori and Ponzu vinaigrette is another good starter choice.  The vibrant ample-bodied nature of this Illumination pairs famously with chicken, grilled pork, and most anything from the ocean.  Classic roast chicken with braised Japanese eggplant, baby carrots and lemongrass chicken jus will demonstrate how well this immaculate wine works with vegetables too.  Interested in an easier fix?  We love this Napa Sauvignon Blanc with a lobster BLT on grilled pita with roasted garlic/citrus mayo.  A brilliant combination if we do say so.  Looking for a still easier fix?  Mexican takeout, especially dishes which feature cilantro, and Asian food, particularly on the spicy side, are wonderful next to the citrus and herb nuances of this Sauvignon Blanc.  Are you ready to be Illuminated winelovers?!

Size:          750ml
Varietal:   92% Sauvignon Blanc; 8% Semillon
Alcohol:    14.2%
Region:     Napa Valley, California