The 2019 Honig Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc is a luscious, highly concentrated dessert wine from the Rutherford region of Napa Valley, crafted from 100% Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Proximity to the Napa River allows the grapes to undergo Botrytis cinerea (Noble Rot), which dehydrates the fruit on the vine and intensifies its natural sugars and acids. This process yields a complex wine with a modest 10.4% ABV, characterized by a bright, viscous texture and a precise balance of honeyed sweetness and refreshing citrus acidity.
On the nose, the wine opens with an intricate blend of baked apple, dried apricot, orange blossom, honey, and toasted almonds. The palate is rich and round, delivering deep flavors of dried pear, green apple, vanilla, and grapefruit rind. It concludes with an elegant, clean finish highlighted by a crisp dash of melon that cuts through the richness.
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For food pairings, its high natural acidity prevents it from tasting cloying, making it a perfect match for rich cheeses like Brie, Gorgonzola, or pungent blue styles. It seamlessly complements fruit-forward desserts such as classic apple tarts, peach cobblers, and creamy favorites like crème brûlée or cheesecake. For a savory contrast, its residual sugar also beautifully tames the heat of spicy Asian dishes.
