The 2024 J. Lohr Bay Mist White Riesling, crafted in Monterey’s Arroyo Seco AVA, is a vibrant and refreshing white wine that exemplifies the region’s cool-climate terroir. Produced by J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, a family-owned winery renowned for its sustainable practices, this Riesling carries the Certified California Sustainable seal, reflecting a commitment to environmentally conscious viticulture. Grown in well-drained Chualar loam soils near Monterey Bay, the grapes benefit from the Region I climate and Salinas Valley winds, which extend the growing season into late October, preserving natural acidity and enhancing fruit complexity.

This pale straw-colored wine offers an aromatic bouquet of honeysuckle, ripe pear, Meyer lemon, and lychee, with subtle hints of green apple and citrus zest. On the palate, it delivers a crisp, off-dry profile with flavors of ripe apple, pear, and candied peach, balanced by a touch of residual sweetness and lively acidity. A signature minerality, derived from the coastal terroir, adds depth, while a light spritz of natural carbonation provides a refreshing finish. With a moderate alcohol content of 12%, it’s an approachable, food-friendly wine that invites another sip.

The 2024 Bay Mist Riesling’s versatility makes it an ideal pairing for a range of cuisines. Its bright acidity and subtle sweetness complement spicy Asian-fusion dishes, Thai curries, or barbecue pork chops with creamy coleslaw. It also shines as an aperitif, pairing well with goat cheese, prosciutto, or light salads. Critics praise its refreshing character, with Wine Enthusiast noting its “candied apple and honeysuckle aromas” and recommending it for breakfast or Asian noodle dishes.

This Riesling’s balance of fruit-forward vibrancy and elegant structure makes it both an easy-drinking sipper and a sophisticated choice for food pairings. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for up to four years, the 2024 J. Lohr Bay Mist White Riesling captures the essence of Monterey’s cool-climate viticulture, offering a delightful expression of the varietal’s potential.