Simon Family Estate Golden Ore Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley 2020

The Simon Family’s journey began in the early 1980s when Sam and Nada Simon immigrated to the United States with their sons from Lebanon.  As they settled into their new home, they discovered a newfound appreciation for wine, embarking on a passionate exploration of vineyards across the globe.  However, it wasn’t just the taste of the wine that intrigued them; it was the stories and histories woven into each bottle.  They found it remarkable that whichever winegrowing region they ventured to, every producer had a tale to tell and one that brought everyone around the table together to hear while tasting the fruits of their labor.

Driven by their insatiable curiosity and love for wine, the Simons joined the Napa Valley Reserve, where they continued their “wine education” and cemented a passion for the intricacies of crafting outstanding wines and, more so, for the genuine enjoyment of all who sit and share a bottle.  During their time in Napa Valley, they encountered and befriended a kindred spirit in Maayan Koschitzky (a fellow immigrant from the Middle East.)  Maayan, now the Director of Winemaking for Atelier Melka, had a shared journey of determination and hard work in a new country that mirrored the Simons’ experiences.  Their instant connection made it a simple choice, and Maayan joined them in their next endeavor of creating a label all their own for the broader wine masses.  With guidance and expertise from Maayan, Sam, and Nada established Simon Family Estate to “share the beauty we have found in wine with others.”

Crafted from 100% Sauvignon Blanc grapes from a vineyard nestled at the base of the majestic Mayacamas Mountains, Golden Ore is a richly perfumed and textured wine that earned its name from the intensely golden-hued color. The vineyard’s well-draining soils challenge the vines to dig deep into the earth, seeking water and nourishment, and this struggle yields small berries with concentrated flavors, setting the stage for a truly exceptional wine.  The 2020 Golden Ore was fermented and aged in French oak barrels, with an impressive 18 months of aging in 30% new French oak.  Only 184 cases were produced, making it a true treasure to behold.  Maayan describes Golden Ore as a “highly expressive Sauvignon Blanc, fresh and racy on one hand but textural and complex on the other.  The dry, warmer growing conditions of the vintage helped to create an even more aromatic wine than is typical for this varietal, with scents of white flowers, citrus zest, vanilla and hints of tropical notes.  Alluring flavors of white peach, citrus, custard and tropical fruit follow, mingling on the palate with counterpoints of stone and slate, bolstered by a trace of French oak.”

The Golden Ore 2020 Sauvignon Blanc is not just a wine but a testament to the power of family, friendship, and the pursuit of dreams.  It reflects the Simons’ unwavering commitment to quality and their passion for storytelling through wine.  Each bottle is a vessel that carries its creators’ collective history, determination, and triumph.