Introduction
Peter Michael L’Après-Midi Sauvignon Blanc Knights Valley 2023 is a superb and elegant white wine from the renowned Peter Michael Winery. The name, which means “the afternoon” in French, is a nod to the wine’s approachable yet sophisticated character, making it a perfect choice to enjoy during a slow, relaxed afternoon. This wine is a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and a small amount of Sémillon, sourced from the Les Pavots vineyard in the mountain appellation of Knights Valley. The 2023 vintage was a longer, cooler season, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly and develop intense flavors while maintaining a lively acidity. This is a complex, age-worthy Sauvignon Blanc that goes beyond the typical profile of the varietal.
Character Description
Peter Michael L’Après-Midi Sauvignon Blanc Knights Valley 2023 has a brilliant, light gold color. The bouquet is a captivating mix of tropical and floral notes, with a fanfare of passionfruit, apricot, and white peach. These fruit aromas are beautifully supported by hints of white rose, jasmine, and a zesty finish of lemon blossom. The palate is rich and creamy, with a full-bodied texture that is balanced by a core of juicy, refreshing acidity. Flavors of concentrated stone fruit and citrus are beautifully complemented by a savory minerality. The finish is exceptionally long and expansive, leaving a lingering impression of vibrant fruit and refined elegance.
Perfect Pairings
This rich and full-bodied Sauvignon Blanc is a versatile partner for a range of refined dishes. Its creamy texture and bright acidity make it an excellent pairing for rich seafood, such as pan-seared scallops, lobster, or grilled halibut with a creamy sauce. It also works beautifully with dishes featuring herbs, like roasted chicken with tarragon and lemon. For a truly luxurious experience, you can serve it alongside a platter of fresh oysters or a seafood tower.
About the Winery
Sir Peter Michael founded Peter Michael Winery in 1982 with a vision to create world-class, terroir-driven wines. His philosophy, “mountain vineyards, classical winemaking, limited production,” guides their entire operation. This dedication to meticulous viticulture and non-interventionist winemaking allows the unique character of each vineyard to express itself fully. L’Après-Midi is a testament to this philosophy, showcasing the remarkable power, finesse, and nuance their mountain-grown Sauvignon Blanc can achieve.