2022 Coquerel - Verdelho Calistoga

The 2022 Coquerel Verdelho Calistoga is a bright, food-friendly white born from Walnut Wash, a small vineyard just north of Calistoga, in Napa Valley. Coquerel Family Wine Estates was founded in 2005 by Brenda and Clay Coquerel, and the estate sits in the shadow of the Mayacamas Mountains, where vines are tended for low yields under the guidance of winemaker Christine Barbe. Verdelho is a rare planting for Napa Valley, thriving here on Walnut Wash’s deep clay and stony soils. Grapes are among the first picked each harvest and are handled in small lots to preserve their natural brightness. The wine is fermented and bottled with an eye toward freshness rather than weight, keeping it crisp and food-friendly.

Tasting notes: The 2022 shows a pure, lemony nose with a touch of mineral, opening into a palate that turns citrusy and faintly tropical, rounding out with flavors of nectarine. Bright acidity keeps the finish clean, with just a hint of honeyed sweetness at the edges.

Pairings: This Verdelho pairs naturally with oysters, ceviche, or Thai and Vietnamese dishes, making it an excellent choice for seafood-forward meals or vibrant, herb-forward menus.