Standing Sun’s Le Blanc

Standing Sun Winery Le Blanc 2011: Like a burst of warm summer sunshine encapsulated in a rich, vibrant white wine, Standing Sun’s Le Blanc blends the brightness of grenache blanc (45% of this vintage) with the acidity of viognier (35%) and suavity of rousanne (25%).

Hints of orange and vanilla and a pleasantly viscous mouthfeel make this a white to remember, perfect for lingering evenings on the patio with cheese on the table and fish on the grill.

One of eight annual releases from winemaker John (an assistant to syrah star Joey Tensley) and soap opera star Laura Wright’s Santa Ynez Valley-based winery, Standing Sun is also upping the entertainment ante this summer with a songwriter series at their facility in Buellton, which continues this Saturday, July 20, 7-10 p.m., with George Stanford. See standingsunwines.com.