La Crema was founded in 1979 with a vision to showcase the remarkable potential of California’s cool-climate coastal vineyards. Their passion took root in Sonoma County, a region they recognised early on for its outstanding terroir. Over time, La Crema has earned a reputation for producing artisanal wines from carefully chosen sites across California and Oregon, always guided by a steadfast commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

Long before sustainability became fashionable, La Crema embraced environmentally responsible practices out of genuine respect for the land. Their philosophy of nature-based winegrowing means working with — rather than against — the land’s natural rhythms, encouraging biodiversity and using native organisms to support vine health. Around 60% of La Crema’s estate vineyard land is purposefully left unplanted, preserving local habitats and enhancing ecological balance.

Monterey is renowned for its cool coastal influence, with fog and breezes from the Pacific Ocean creating an extended growing season that allows grapes to develop full, complex flavours while retaining bright acidity. The fruit for this wine is sourced from a variety of vineyards throughout the Monterey appellation with the predominantly free-draining loam soils further encourage balanced vine growth and expressive fruit.

This wine reveals enticing aromas of grilled pineapple, citrus blossom, tangerine and papaya. On the palate, flavours of white peach, key lime and honeydew melon come to the fore, elegantly complemented by subtle touches of barrel spice and a distinctive river stone minerality that adds freshness and depth.

It pairs beautifully with Dungeness crab, pan-sautéed petrale sole, or virtually any fish and shellfish. It also makes an inspired match with cheeses such as Manchego.