Region: Pine Mountain-Cloverdale Peak, Sonoma County, California

Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc

Producer: Byington Vineyard & Winery has been a compelling voice in the Santa Cruz Mountains since the 1980s, embracing mountain terroir, cool-climate expressiveness, and sustainable farming. The Tin Cross label draws on the storied history of Tin Cross Vineyard, which dates back to 1855 and is one of California’s oldest high-elevation sites. With this Sauvignon Blanc, Byington brings a boutique sensibility to a variety more commonly associated with lower-elevation coastal sites, demonstrating elegance and finesse in a rarified mountain context.

Vineyard & Winemaking: The 2023 Sauvignon Blanc is sourced from Pine Mountain Vineyard at about 2,800 ft elevation, vinified and bottled at Byington’s Santa Cruz Mountains facility.  The site’s steep, well-drained soils (sand and gravel) and cool mountain climate provide ideal conditions for extended hang time without losing freshness. In the cellar, the approach is clean and intentional: indigenous yeast fermentation and neutral vessels preserve purity, while thoughtful temperature control retains aromatics and tension. Although Tin Cross doesn’t currently grow Sauvignon Blanc themselves, the sourcing from Pine Mountain aligns with the brand’s tradition of high-altitude, finely structured fruit.

Tasting Notes: The 2023 Tin Cross Sauvignon Blanc opens with a vibrant bouquet of tropical and stone fruit—think mango, papaya, pineapple—lifted by citrus zest. On the palate it’s generous and long, yet poised, showing crisp acidity that frames a core of ripe peach and lemon-lime flavors. A subtle mineral and saline edge gives it focus and lift, making it feel elegant and refreshing without losing textural weight. It’s an inviting white that pairs beautifully with shellfish, fresh herbs, or simply on its own.