Wines Anderson Valley Navarro Vineyards - Muscat Blanc - 2013

Viniou Reviews

Navarro Vineyards’ 2013 Cuvée Muscat Blanc from Anderson Valley is a captivating white wine crafted from the Muscat grape, known for its highly aromatic character. The 2013 vintage presents a wine that balances vibrant floral and citrus notes with a bone-dry finish, standing out from the often sweet Muscat styles. Grown in the cool, fog-kissed vineyards of Anderson Valley, the grapes benefit from a significant diurnal temperature swing, which preserves fresh acidity and allows a slow, even ripening that deepens flavor complexity. Vinification typically involves a gentle pressing and fermentation in temperature-controlled tanks, highlighting the grape’s hallmark aromatics while preserving crispness and elegance, resulting in a wine with aromatic lift and a precise palate.

Anderson Valley, nestled in California's Mendocino County, is an AVA celebrated for its nuanced whites and cool-climate varieties thanks to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean. The region’s soils are diverse, primarily made up of sandy loam and clay with good drainage, which helps the vines develop concentration while avoiding excessive vigor. Historically, Anderson Valley was planted with apple orchards before emerging as a premium wine region in the latter half of the 20th century. Its combination of ocean-influenced climate and rural landscape has allowed boutique wineries like Navarro Vineyards to focus on small-lot, terroir-driven wines.

For food pairings, the dry Muscat Blanc is incredibly versatile. Its perfumed nose and lively acidity make it a natural with Asian-inspired cuisine such as Vietnamese spring rolls, Thai salads, or Japanese sashimi. It also pairs beautifully with Mediterranean fare, such as grilled shrimp with lemon, goat cheese salads, or even a local California favorite like Dungeness crab. For regional inspiration, try it with a cheese plate featuring local cheeses from the Anderson Valley area, especially fresh chèvre.

To appreciate its full aromatic range and refreshing palate, serve this wine well-chilled but not ice-cold, ideally between 8-10°C. This temperature brings out the grape’s signature floral and citrus notes while retaining its vibrant acidity, making for an expressive and delightful tasting experience.