Union Sacré Orange Riesling, Santa Barbara County, California 2023

Union Sacré, a project founded by Xavier Arnaudin and Philip Muzzy, is known for expressive, unconventional takes on Alsatian varieties grown in California. This dry Riesling is made in an orange wine style, fermented on its skins for nearly a month to highlight texture and aromatic complexity.

• WINEMAKER: Xavier Arnaudin & Philip Muzzy.

• FARMING: Sustainably sourced vineyards in Santa Barbara County.

• VARIETY: 100% Riesling.

• TERROIR: Santa Barbara County—cool coastal climate with diverse soils that preserve Riesling’s high acidity while developing ripe stone fruit character.

• VINIFICATION: Skin-fermented for 28 days at controlled temperatures (60°F) in neutral wood tanks; native yeast.

• AGING: 8 months on fine lees in neutral vessels. Unfined and unfiltered.

• TASTING NOTES: Dry and structured. Aromas of ripe peaches, apricot, and melrose apple, layered with tropical tones of mango and passionfruit. Textural palate with phenolic grip from skin contact, balanced by bright acidity and lingering mineral undertones.

• FOOD PAIRINGS: Pork belly, roasted poultry, spicy Southeast Asian cuisine, Moroccan tagines, washed-rind cheeses.

• TECHNICAL DETAILS:

  • Cases Produced: 640

  • Alcohol: 12.2%