Today’s Story: Favia Erickson Winegrowers
Favia was founded in 2003 by viticulturist Annie Favia and winemaker Andy Erickson, a husband and wife duo. Annie has experience working with John Kongsgaard and Cathy Corison, though her viticulturist expertise came working under David Abreu. Andy also has an extensive resume, which includes winemaking stints at Screaming Eagle, Dalla Valle, Ovid, Harlan Estate, and Staglin amongst others. Andy also consults for Arietta, Mayacamas, and Dancing Hares Vineyard.
I had an opportunity to visit Favia for a tour and tasting in the past, and it truly is a special experience. Annie and Andy live on the property in a home built in 1886 for the Carbone family, who are believed to be the first Italian immigrants to Napa Valley. Though modernized, Annie and Andy restored the home using historical documents alongside other structures on the property. A very cool feature, the cellar sits under the family home and Favia stores their wine right where they live. Strong believers in biodynamic practices and caring for the earth, Annie and Andy planted fruit trees, an olive orchard, and a garden (which we got to try a tomato from) in addition to the existing walnut orchard.
I highly suggest a visit to Favia if you take a trip to Napa Valley, as it’s a very small, unique tasting experience and is not too far from downtown Napa. In the meantime, check out their website here to browse their wines and see incredible pictures of the property. I also previously reviewed their 2013 Linea Sauvignon Blanc and 2014 Quarzo Syrah.
Today’s Wine: 2016 Suize Viognier
100% Viognier; 14.1% ABV
The 2016 Suize Viognier is deep straw in color with medium gold hues. Aromas are of medium (+) intensity, with the nose showcasing notes of white peach, mango, tangerine, honeysuckle, white rose, popcorn kernel, butter, and brioche. Meanwhile the flavors are also of medium (+) intensity, while the palate offers up notes of white peach, mango, tangerine, juniper berry, honeysuckle, beeswax, dried herbs, vanilla, and butter. This has the classic oily mouthfeel of Viognier as well. This dry white is full-bodied with medium acidity, high alcohol, and a medium (+) length finish. Quality here is good, with this being a textbook representation of the variety.
Price: $75. Price-wise and therefore value-wise this is pretty steep for a classic representation of Viognier. The quality, depth, and length here are all quite good though and it’s an enjoyable wine if you come across it and feel spendy.
JB's Wine Talk 