Introduction
The 2021 Cadre Band of Stones Grüner Veltliner from Edna Valley, California, is a unique New World expression of this classic Austrian varietal, crafted with care by Cadre Wines. Known for their focus on terroir-driven wines, Cadre produces a Grüner Veltliner with vibrant acidity, fresh minerality, and nuanced complexity, capturing Edna Valley’s cool-climate character.
Terrior
Edna Valley’s coastal climate is ideal for cool-climate varietals, as the nearby Pacific Ocean brings in fog and cool breezes, extending the growing season. The vineyard’s stony, well-drained soils add a distinctive minerality, while the region’s sunny days and cool nights allow Grüner Veltliner to ripen slowly, developing expressive aromatics and maintaining high acidity.
Appearance
Pale straw with greenish reflections, clear and bright, indicative of youth and freshness.
Nose
The nose is fresh and aromatic, with notes of green apple, lime zest, and pear. Delicate herbal hints of white pepper and thyme combine with a stony minerality, enhancing the wine’s complexity and typicity.
Palate
On the palate, this wine is light to medium-bodied with crisp acidity. Flavors of citrus, green melon, and stone fruit are balanced by a chalky, mineral texture. The characteristic white pepper spice of Grüner Veltliner is evident, adding depth and a slight savory note. A subtle creaminess from lees aging rounds out the mouthfeel, creating a harmonious balance between fruit, acidity, and minerality.
Finish
The finish is clean, refreshing, and mineral-driven, with lingering notes of citrus and white pepper, leaving a mouthwatering impression.
Overall Impression
The 2021 Cadre Band of Stones Grüner Veltliner is a beautifully crafted, terroir-driven wine that combines Old World elegance with Edna Valley’s New World vibrancy. Its bright acidity, layered flavors, and mineral backbone make it an ideal pairing for seafood, asparagus, and light poultry dishes, as well as an excellent aperitif.
Published Rankings
Wine Enthusiast Rating: 91
James Suckling Rating: 89
Vinous Rating: 90
Published Awards and Recognition
Silver Medal, California Wine Competition 2023
Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 12.5%
Farming Practices: Sustainable, emphasizing soil health and biodiversity. Cadre Wines uses cover cropping, organic composting, and integrated pest management. The winery employs minimal intervention techniques to enhance vineyard expression and preserve the natural balance of the vineyard ecosystem.
Producer Name: Cadre Wines
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: USA
Region: Edna Valley, California
Grape Varietals: Grüner Veltliner
Vintage: 2021
Wine Style: Dry white
Winemaking Techniques: Stainless steel fermentation with extended lees contact for added texture and complexity, showcasing purity of fruit and Edna Valley’s mineral-rich terroir
Pack Size: 750 ml
Container Style: Bottle
Closure Style: Cork