2023
CONTRAST
Contrast is a perfect example of what is possible in California but nearly outlawed in France: a combination of Chardonnay & Sauvignon Blanc.
![default Paso Robles winery vineyards](https://benomwines.com/wp-content/uploads/bb-plugin/cache/SolomonBW-scaled-panorama-036d23840ad880189ee3a573bedda028-4dyc2g0mpavq.jpg)
THE STRUCTURE
When it comes to the “different & eclectic” offerings the Fabre brothers were looking to craft, Contrast is nearly the definition. In France, these varietals from Bordeaux, Loire, and Burgundy are competitors. In Paso Robles, their opposing terroirs and characteristics work in harmony to deliver a stunningly unique wine. Crafted in a Chablis manner, the acidity and brightness are garnered from the Chardonnay. The Sauvignon Blanc is allowed an extended ripening to bring about tropical notes. From these two contrasting varietals comes a textured and chalky Chardonnay balanced by crisp fresh notes of the Sauvignon Blanc and a minerally driven, palate-coating finish.
![Contrast23V A Bottle of 2023 Contrast Wine](https://benomwines.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/ContrastV-scaled-e1721329081358.jpg)
![ccontrast bw Two pictures: Left - A Paso Robles vineyard right: Guillaume Fabre with a wine barrel](https://benomwines.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/ccontrast-bw-scaled.jpg)
THE BLEND
84% Chardonnay
16% Sauvignon Blanc
Technical Notes
AVA
Edna Valley & Adelaida
![grapes-svgrepo-com Icon of grapes](https://benomwines.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/grapes-svgrepo-com.png)
Vineyards
Greengate Ranch, Solomon Hills, Parrish
![Fermentation-icon Fermentation tank icon](https://benomwines.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Fermentation-icon-1.png)
Fermentation
Two weeks in stainless steel and concrete
![Barrel icon Barrel icon](https://benomwines.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Barrel-icon-1.png)
Aging
Five months in 57% neutral oak, 24% new French oak, and 19% concrete
Tasting Notes
With a radiant golden hue, the 2023 Contrast presents an aromatic symphony featuring notes of white peach, fragrant honeysuckle, and zesty yuzu. This crisp medium-bodied white offers a harmonious blend of acidity, minerality, and freshness. The oak enhances the aromatics and structure while bâtonnage and contact with the lees add a luxurious texture and a round yet bright finish.
![albert-melu-WUu5CX-u-L8-unsplash Sprigs of Thyme](https://benomwines.com/wp-content/uploads/bb-plugin/cache/albert-melu-WUu5CX-u-L8-unsplash-2-panorama-0bf2f4eefa5d3bcf7cf769e4a84447e8-wrk0ave5ld86.jpg)
![christine-siracusa-ErMaQGihZvI-unsplash Three artichokes in a basket](https://benomwines.com/wp-content/uploads/bb-plugin/cache/christine-siracusa-ErMaQGihZvI-unsplash-1-square-334df6cdcfdd7c5fbbb4b4e29f0db4a8-rbfolydxzu13.jpg)
Food Pairing
Artichoke Barigoule
The ideal food pairing for Contrast is Artichoke Barigoule. Artichoke Barigoule is a classic French dish originating from the Provence region. This exquisite dish features tender artichoke hearts simmered in a flavorful broth infused with white wine, aromatic herbs such as thyme and bay leaf, and a medley of vegetables including carrots, onions, and celery. Try this food and wine pairing for Contrast and Artichoke Barigoule at home to relax and indulge in a moment of culinary bliss.