Muscat Canneli, 2020. Leto Cellars

Founded in 2008 by Brad and Lisa Warner, Leto Cellars, meaning "the hidden one," alludes to the importance of what happens behind-the-scenes in winemaking. Brad has dedicated 54 years to wine. Starting his career in the cellar at Charles Krug Winery, Brad's skill caught the interest of Robert Mondavi. He has traveled to the Bordeaux and Burgundy regions in France to learn the classic methods of winemaking and cellar operations, before returning to the states, where he developed cellar protocols still used today. They have a commitment to "embrace what each vintage has to offer," and are dedicated to independent growers, oldschool winemaking techniques, and a personal approach to hospitality.

The wines of Windsor Oaks Vineyard, Notre Vue Estate, were planted in cobbled clay soil in 2001. The entire vineyard is bathed with afternoon breezes flowing through the Russian River Valley that gives the fruit an extended hang time for flavor development. There are 16 different varietals growing across the 210 acre vineyard, which uses certified sustainable farming practices, producing premium, terroir-driven wines that showcase the strength and vitality of the region.

This wine is a brilliant pale yellow with a green tint. True to the description of the ancient Roman writer Pliny the Elder who called Muscat "uva apiana" or the grape of the bees, this is a semi-dry wine reminiscent of honey. It has aromas of tangerine and orange blossom, with a balanced and crisp acidity on the palate and a clean, lingering fruit finish. It is delightful as an aperitif, paired with a simple salad, or stunning with foods such as bibimbap, soy and ginger marinated grilled chicken, or caramelized pork.

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