One of the things that makes California’s wine scene so inspiring is the freedom that so many young winemakers have to embark on their own projects. Of course, not all of these prove to be a success, but when Scott Schultz decided to branch out on his own, he did so with the full backing and confidence of his mentor Pax Mahle (one of the state’s star winemakers and owner of the Wind Gap label).
Scott continues to work alongside Pax, but his Jolie-Laide label has already turned enough heads to suggest that the wines will go on to become some of the most sought-after in the state, electrifying the palates of those lucky enough to try them
Production is microscopic and collectors and sommeliers are falling over themselves to get an allocation. The tension, complexity and concentration of the wines is such, that it is no surprise Scott is being heralded as one of California’s most exciting winemakers.
Jolie-Laide - a chosen few from us
£43 Case of 12 £464.40
"Jolie-Laide" is a French expression, roughly translating as: "beautiful / ugly" - but there's nothing ugly about this gorgeously silky, juicy Grenache.
£29 £26.10
When Scott Schultz makes a wine, he makes it his own, and this rose is quite something. Made from the "Napa Gamay" grape, it has delicate pale watermelon colour and flavours of sunshine.
£49 Case of 12 £529.20
The Syrah used to produce this bottle comes from high altitude vineyards in California. The dramatic conditions it grows in creates a fruit that has less sweetness sand is very expressive. It has everything we love about syrah, juicy and perfumed with a touch of spice.
£33 Case of 12 £356.40
Jolie-Laide label has already turned enough heads to suggest that the wines will go on to become some of the most sought-after in the state, electrifying the palates of those lucky enough to try them.
The vineyards are all organic but not all certified yet.
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