One of our favorite California Sauvignon Blancs right now comes from the Tench team. This 100% Sauvignon Blanc opens with a gorgeous nose of lychee, orchid, and white peach, followed by a palate with the depth to match its seductive aromatics. A touch of new oak (25%) adds subtle texture, balancing the natural ripeness of this sun-filled site. With only one acre of Sauvignon Blanc planted on their 42-acre estate—sharing an alluvial fan with Screaming Eagle—this is a rare Oakville expression. Planted to Clone 1 and Musqué, it’s a limited and compelling wine, with just 120 cases produced.
Tench Estate: A New Chapter for a Classic Estate
Arriving at Tench Estate is like stepping into Napa of a previous generation. There are no ornate sculptures or architecturally opulent structures. Proprietors Margaret Tench and her husband Rem live in the same home occupied by her parents and grandparents before. A basketball hoop outside the production facility signals the children who call this place home. The property was purchased by Margaret’s grandparents in 1965 and planted to vine in 1971. The grapes were only sold for the first two generations. In fact, some of the original Tench fruit was a component of the storied Joseph Phelps ‘Insignia’ in this era. It was only when Margaret inherited the vineyard that she and her husband decided to produce their own wine to carry on the story of the site.
And while everything about the property speaks of humble origins, the breathtaking views tell the story of this prized piece of land that holds 42 acres of vine, in addition to so much history. Just past the 25-year-old Cabernet vines is the distinct view of Screaming Eagle that neighbors the property. In fact, Tench’s Sauvignon Blanc vines are separated by those of Screaming Eagle by a matter of feet. The hill upon which the house is situated showcases the rocky basalt soil that encourages the deep rooting of vines to build complexity. This is some of the best soil in all of Napa Valley. The wines show the clear intention of Margaret, Rem, and their two young boys to express the character of this unique site. In 2021, Philippe Melka joined their team as consulting winemaker to elevate the wines to new heights.
