Ambyth Estate Sauvignon Blanc Orange Wine 2022

AmByth Estate was founded with a simple yet profound philosophy: to understand and respect the land for future generations, a commitment reflected in its name, "AmByth," which means "forever" in Welsh. The estate expanded through acquiring two parcels of land in 2000 and 2001. In 2003, AmByth began employing biodynamic practices, introducing preparations in homeopathic quantities to enhance soil health and vine vitality. The estate's agricultural efforts expanded by planting vines and olive trees in the lower vineyard in 2003 and the upper vineyards in 2005.

Each newly planted vine initially received only five gallons of water, relying on rainfall after that to establish itself. This practice underlines the estate's commitment to sustainability and minimal intervention. The first significant harvest came in 2010, although a potentially fruitful year in 2011 was compromised by a late frost that destroyed half of the crop. Subsequent years challenged the vineyards with five years of drought, receiving very little rain, followed by two years of near-average rainfall.

Despite these challenges, the vines have not only survived but have started to produce what is considered some of the best-quality grape juice in the region. AmByth Estate views its role as a steward of the land, continuously learning and adapting practices from external sources and its own experiences to cultivate its crops in harmony with the environment.

Located midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, just south of Paso Robles and north of San Luis Obispo, the estate vineyards are perched on a saddle ridge atop a hill within the Templeton Gap vortex. This unique geographical feature allows for the cool Pacific Ocean air to filter through the Santa Lucia Mountains along the central coast. This air is drawn consistently into the Creston Valley, which runs from west to east, making the appellation consistently 5 or more degrees cooler than the surrounding areas. 

The wind not only brings cool air but also plays a crucial role in maintaining vine health by keeping the vines dry and reducing the presence of mildew, molds, and large bug colonies. This benefits the vineyard's approach to farming. The estate's steep hillsides enable vine roots to reach deep into an ancient substrate of sedimentary rock comprising limestone, sandstone, calcareous clays, and clay loam, a blend known as Linne Calodo. This mineral-rich composition endows the vines with distinctive minerality and acidity, characteristics that are reflected in the estate wines.

California is a prominent wine-producing state in the United States. It is characterized by a wide variety of climates and geographical features conducive to viticulture. The state encompasses several well-known wine regions with distinct climatic conditions and grape varietals.

Napa Valley is one of the most famous wine regions globally and is located north of San Francisco. It is renowned for its Cabernet Sauvignon, produced in a climate moderated by fog from San Pablo Bay. The region also grows Merlot, Chardonnay, and other varietals. Napa Valley features diverse soils, including volcanic and sedimentary, contributing to its wines' robust flavors.

Sonoma County neighbors Napa Valley and is more extensive and diverse. It has a cooler climate due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, making it ideal for Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Zinfandel. Sonoma County is known for its varied terroirs, from the cool Sonoma Coast to the warmer Sonoma Valley.

Central Coast spans from San Francisco Bay to Santa Barbara County and includes several smaller AVAs (American Viticultural Areas). This region produces a wide array of grapes, benefiting from a long growing season influenced by coastal breezes. Notable sub-regions include Paso Robles, known for robust red wines like Syrah and Zinfandel, and Monterey County, where cooler climate varietals like Chardonnay and Pinot Noir thrive.

Sierra Foothills, located east of Sacramento, rises from the valley into the mountains of the Sierra Nevada. This region, known historically for its role during the California Gold Rush, produces wine from old vine Zinfandel and increasingly notable Rhône varietals. The higher elevation results in significant diurnal temperature variation, which preserves acidity and enhances flavor complexity in the grapes.

Lodi is in the Central Valley, south of Sacramento, and benefits from a Mediterranean climate. It is known for its old vine Zinfandel, with some vines dating back to the late 19th century. Lodi's sandy soils provide good drainage and are resistant to phylloxera, contributing to the health and longevity of its vines.

Mendocino County is north of Sonoma and has a cooler maritime climate. It is recognized for organic and sustainable viticulture, focusing on Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The region's Anderson Valley benefits from coastal fog and cool temperatures that extend the growing season.

Each of these regions contributes to California's reputation as a versatile and high-quality wine-producing area, committed to tradition and innovative practices in viticulture and enology.