2017 Domaine A Lady A Sauvignon Blanc, Coal River Valley

The Lady returns. Originally made by Peter Althaus as a love letter to his beloved wife Ruth, Lady A was first released in 1996. Since then, Domaine A devotees have awaited the release of what James Halliday called ‘the finest oaked sauvignon blanc’ he ever tasted. As per usual, expect elegance and texture (whereas most sauvignon blancs lead with fruit and acid), aged for three years before release (most Sauvignon Blancs are released young). As with past vintages, the 2017 Lady A takes her cues from Bordeaux. Fermented in French oak barriques, matured on fine lees for twelve months, and then rested in the cellar until ready for release. It’s well worth the wait.