Outward Shell Creek Vineyard Chenin Blanc, Paso Robles, California

From one of the oldest Chenin Blanc plantings in San Luis Obispo County, this 2024 vintage from Outward Wines captures both the wild beauty of its limestone-cliff vineyard site and the thoughtful, low-intervention approach that defines the winery’s ethos. With just 340 cases produced, this organically farmed, old-vine Chenin Blanc offers a rare expression of Paso Robles Highlands terroir, vibrant, mineral-driven, and texturally compelling.

Product Details:

• Varietal: 100% Chenin Blanc
• Vineyard: Shell Creek Vineyard - planted 1972, organically farmed by the Sinton family
• Soils: Clay and sand beneath limestone cliffs rich in marine fossils
• Farming: Certified organic; dry-farmed; wide diurnal range for balanced ripening
• Harvest: Two separate picks: late August (19 Brix) and early September (21.3 Brix)
• Fermentation: First pick foot-stomped and soaked on skins for 24 hours; second pick direct-pressed; both fermented with native yeast in neutral oak barrels
• Aging: 10 months on undisturbed lees in neutral oak; unfined, unfiltered
• Additions: Minimal sulfur before bottling
• ABV: 12.5%
• / pH: 3.39%
• TA: 5.7 g/L
• RS: 0.1 g/L residual sugar
• Winemakers/ Owners: Eric Thorson and Cara Comstock
• Production Volume: 340 cases (equivalent to 4,080 bottles)

Sensory Description:

The 2024 Shell Creek Chenin Blanc strikes a poised balance between aromatic opulence and bright structural tension. On the nose, it opens with layers of quince, ripe pear, white flowers, and ginger, joined by more textural elements like beeswax, wool, and wet stone. The palate is energized by vibrant acidity and underlying minerality, carrying the wine through a long, clean finish that combines savory depth with electric freshness. Lees aging and skin contact lend gentle grip and nuance, amplifying the wine’s layered expression while preserving its coastal lift.

Winemaker’s Background:

Outward Wines was founded by Eric Thorson and Cara Comstock with a focus on minimal-intervention winemaking, transparency of place, and a sense of humility toward nature. Drawing inspiration from wilderness and exploration, they seek out remote vineyard sites farmed with integrity, favoring old vines, organic practices, and coastal climates. Their approach is firmly non-manipulative: native ferments, neutral oak, minimal sulfur, and bottling without fining or filtration. The Shell Creek Vineyard Chenin Blanc reflects this philosophy, offering a wine that speaks clearly of site, season, and careful stewardship.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 50–55 °F to preserve aromatic delicacy while allowing texture to emerge. A natural partner for dishes featuring acidity and creaminess, such as lemon-roasted chicken, chèvre salads, or seafood with beurre blanc. For more adventurous pairings, try it with ginger-poached pear, spring vegetable risotto, or Comté cheese. A must-try for lovers of Loire Chenin looking to explore its California coastal expression, or anyone seeking energetic, minimal-intervention white wine with complexity and soul.