Whitcraft Winery 'Stolpman Vineyard' Chenin Blanc, Ballard Canyon, California

The 2022 Whitcraft Winery Stolpman Vineyard Chenin Blanc is a refined, small-lot expression of a Loire Valley classic, transplanted to the unique terroir of Ballard Canyon. From budwood sourced from a renowned site in Anjou and carefully cultivated by Peter Stolpman and Rajat Parr, this wine reflects both a deep respect for old-world tradition and the distinctive character of its California home. Aged for 18 months in neutral 500L puncheons, it is bottled unfined and unfiltered to preserve its natural texture and nuance.

Product Details:

• Varietal: Chenin Blanc
• ABV: 11.10%
• Vineyard: Stolpman Vineyard
• Aging: 18 months in neutral puncheon (500L)
• Winemaker: Drake Whitcraft

Sensory Description:

This Chenin Blanc pours a pale straw with subtle green highlights, signaling freshness and purity. The nose is vibrant, offering layers of white peach, quince, and crisp pear, accented by gentle floral notes and a hint of wet stone. On the palate, it’s taut and mineral-driven, with a delicate texture shaped by extended lees contact in neutral oak. Citrus zest and green apple mingle with honeycomb undertones, while bright acidity keeps the finish clean and mouthwatering. The unfined, unfiltered approach imparts a faint, natural haze and enhances the wine’s depth and authenticity.

Winemaker's Background:

Whitcraft Winery was founded in 1985 by Chris and Kathleen Whitcraft, whose passion for fine wine was fueled by mentorship from some of California’s most respected winemakers. Today, their son, Drake Whitcraft, continues the legacy, crafting wines with minimal intervention that speak clearly of their vineyard origins. Focused on balance, site expression, and elegance, Whitcraft produces distinctive small-lot wines that honor both the fruit and the land from which it comes.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 50–54°F in a white wine glass to showcase its aromatic lift and mineral backbone. This Chenin Blanc pairs beautifully with fresh oysters, chèvre salad with citrus vinaigrette, or herb-roasted chicken. Its bright acidity and layered complexity also make it a versatile companion for soft cheeses or seasonal vegetable dishes.

With its restrained alcohol, textural finesse, and vivid fruit character, the 2022 Whitcraft Winery Stolpman Vineyard Chenin Blanc offers an elegant, terroir-focused take on a historic varietal, perfect for those who appreciate purity, precision, and understated beauty in their wines.