The 2006 Avanguardia Cristalo is a refreshing, tangy, fruit forward wine with great acidity and balance. It's made from a grape with a colorful history. Rkatsiteli (Pronounced "rkah-tsee-tely") is an ancient vinifera, which originated in Georgia (the country, not the state) and is one of the oldest and most widely panted grape varieties

Australia and the U.S., specifically Finger Lakes in New York and some experimental plantings in California are taking root. Those of you on the East coast are probably more familiar of the grape as Dr. Frank's Vinifera Wine Cellars makes an outstanding Rkatsiteli.

The '06 Avanguardia Cristalo is a beautiful representation of what the Sierra Foothills can produce. It's intense fruit and spicy notes dances against the bright acidity and minerality comparing to the likes of a Riesling or a Gewürztraminer but with a dash of Vouvray for its fresh and vigorous fruity components and a Melon de Bourgogne giving it acidity and an almost briny tang. If you're looking for something different, this is an exemplary wine with substance and pizzazz. Drink now. ~Pamela Heiligenthal

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