At a glance

Producer

Pine Ridge Vineyards

Region

California, USA

Grape variety

Chenin Blanc, Viognier

Wine type

White

Body

Light-bodied and Crisp

Sweetness

Off-Dry

Typical price

$12-18 USD

Tasting profile

Honeyed quince, subdued white peach, soft yellow apple, hints of beeswax and slight nuttiness.

Evolution: Lost primary aromatics and vibrancy, now showing light oxidative and tertiary notes.

At peak: At peak, this wine exhibits citrus blossom, melon, honeydew, crisp acidity, and a refreshing finish. Now more mellow with subtle fruit and evolved complexity.

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to lively (now softened with age)

Tannins

None (white blend)

Alcohol

Moderate (~12.5%)

Aging potential

Short; best within 2-4 years of vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2014 to 2015

Optimal window

2014 to 2016

Current status

Past peak but still drinkable, with diminished fruit.

Current condition

Approaching full maturity, delicate freshness may have faded, but some honeyed notes and soft texture remain if well stored.

Designed as a fresh, aromatic blend, Pine Ridge's Chenin Blanc - Viognier is meant for enjoyment within 2-4 years post-vintage. With 2013, optimal freshness and fruit expression have passed, but it may still show pleasant, mature characteristics if cellared correctly.

Food pairing

Delicate seafood, shrimp cocktail, fresh chèvre, summer salads, mild Asian cuisine.

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Pine Ridge Vineyards implements energy-efficient technologies, solar power integration, water conservation programs, integrated pest management (low pesticide use), owl and raptor boxes for natural pest control, and lightweight glass bottle usage.

Pine Ridge Vineyards participates in the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance and holds CCSW certification, signaling systematic environmental and social responsibility (but not full organic status). They combine renewable energy, local ecosystem support, and reduced packaging weight. Notable areas for improvement include transition to organic/biodynamic viticulture, further reduction of fossil-fuel-based transportation for global exports, and efforts toward carbon neutrality. Overall, this places the 2013 Chenin Blanc - Viognier toward the upper middle in sustainability among Napa and broader California white blends.