Beverage of the Week (B.O.W)
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BOW for the Week of: June 8 June 14, 2011
As summer drifts in we introduce another great summer wine from Stepping Stone. BevX readers know that Stepping Stone is the sibling wine of Cornerstone Cellars, a reserve level brand that continues to offer some of Napa’s best Cabernets.
This week we feature the wonderfully refreshing and complex Stepping Stone Sauvignon Blanc “Cuveé Musque.” The wine takes its moniker from the clone of Sauvignon Blanc, Musque.
As many of you know, there are many different clones of the popular grape varieties used for wine making. In some cases these clones offer very distinct aromatics and flavors that differentiate wines made from the respective clone. At times the choice of clone is as impactful as the climate or the use of oak.
Musque is a French term for “musky” or perfumed. In Wine speak this refers to a grape having characteristics of the Muscat grape. Muscat is recognized for its incredible perfumed and floral aromatics. You will find musque clones of other varietals such as Chardonnay and most famous is the Gewurztraminer Musque.
The terrific Stepping Stone Sauvignon Blanc “Cuveé Musque" showcases the classic aromatics found in the musque clone. It offers scents redolent of spring flowers with tropical and citrus fruits as well. This wine is fermented at very cool temperatures in stainless steel that capture the fresh and vibrant flavors. The result is a Wine that is fresh and cheery with layers of intrigue and a deft dose of racy acidity that makes this an ideal choice at the dinner table. While it’s undeniably a great “food wine” we love it with just a glass.
