Situated on the west side of Napa Valley, just south of the town of Yountville, I Block is a 15 year old vineyard that sits flat on the valley floor. The Sauvignon Blanc planted here enjoys full days of sun, unshaded from the hillsides, and by design, the vineyard has a few Muscat vines sporadically intermingled amonst the rows making it truly unique.

Celebated winemaker Tom Rinaldi's career began at Freemark Abbey, and in 1978, he became the founding winemaker at Duckhorn Vineyards for the first 22 vintages. Before DoublePlus Wines, he helped build Pellet Estate, Provenance Vineyards and Hewitt from the ground up. DoublePlus Wines production is small, with only about 1,100 cases produced in total, as everything from vine to bottle is harvested and made by hand. Rinaldi’s 45+ years of Napa Valley wine experience enables him to produce wines that showcase his masterful blend of traditional French techniques with ultra-high premium fruit. “Early in my career, I realized that certain barrels showed the divergence from the norm; both positive and not. I decided long ago to taste each barrel and rate it. Typically marking with chalk, I would chalk a barrel I did not approve of with an “X”-not one I would use in a blend, and fortunately a rarity. A “minus sign” needed additional help, or removal. Others were a “check mark, being normal or average. There were some very nice barrel samples that were delightful, and would get a “+” (plus sign). In the lot were certain rare barrels, exceptional wines that were extraordinary, and I would rate those with “++” “DoublePlus”. I have done this in China, Russia, Washington State, and in Napa Valley. It is my own barrel-rating system.”

Aromas of lemon/lime and honey suckle with a touch of vanilla and tropical notes. Lime zest and juicy acidity, ripe flavors linger on the palate. Finishes with a charming touch of nutmeg. I think this wine will speak for itself! Only 350 cases produced, 50% aged in new French oak. -Tom Rinaldi, Winemaker