The Data

Country   USA

Appellation   Applegate Valley

Varietal   Vermentino

Retail Price   $25

ABV   12.9%

Score   4.5 Stars/95 points

In the Glass

Brilliant, pale straw color.

The nose is moderately intense offering scents of grapefruit and green tea with supporting notes of fresh herbs, green tea, apricot stone, and green olive tapenade.

The palate confirms the nose delivering a ripe citrus and orchard fruits-driven core with flavors of green melon, sudachi, and citrus zest. The finish is long and lingering.

Medium-bodied and perfectly balanced with a vibrant texture.

Cool Factor

It's an Oregon Vermentino, which makes it pretty cool before you pull the cork. Once you get it open it proves to be very cool.

Value Grade

This contemplative wine is made in small quantities — 400 cases made — so we find the rarity and quality absolutely justify the $25 price tag.

Analysis

We have been a fan of the Troon Vermentino since first tasting their 2014 vintage. It was clear then, and remains certain, that the climate found in Oregon's Applegate Valley is ideal for growing grapes like Vermentino. Troon Vineyard's Vermentino is not styled in the mold of either French nor Italian Vermentino rather it is developed into a very unique style that is 100% Troon. In previous vintages Troon has offered a Vermentino made as an "orange wine." This current vintage has elements of flavor akin to the orange wine while also incorporating a more French-style we saw in earlier Troon Vermentinos. This 2018 Vermentino is made with a whole-cluster press juice that is racked-off into mature French Oak Burgundy barrels, where it ferments using only native yeasts. Bottled at a sprite 12.9% alcohol by volume.

How to Enjoy

This terrific white is the ideal aperitif offering complex flavors with bright acidity and a nimble, vibrant texture. At the table pair this Troon Vermentino with Thai curries, smoked fish, or a classic pho.