Wines Alexander Valley Charles Smith - Riesling Kung Fu Girl - 2022

Viniou Reviews

Charles Smith’s Kung Fu Girl Riesling 2022 is a lively, expressive white wine crafted from 100% Riesling grapes. Sourced from vineyards in California’s renowned Alexander Valley AVA, the 2022 vintage benefitted from a season of well-balanced warmth and ample sunshine. The valley’s alluvial soils and the cool breezes coming from the Pacific allow the grapes to retain fresh acidity while developing concentrated flavours. For this cuvée, the winemaking process likely favours stainless steel for fermentation, preserving crisp aromatics and the grape’s inherent vibrancy, resulting in a dry yet fruit-driven profile: expect aromas of apricot, white peach, and lime blossom, with a hint of mineral undertones that reflect its Californian terroir and meticulous vinification.

The Alexander Valley, nestled in Sonoma County, combines warm days and cool, foggy nights—ideal for developing complex white wines. Historically, the region has been valued for its exceptional growing conditions and diverse soil structure, ranging from sandy loams to gravel pockets. While best-known for robust reds, its whites—especially Rieslings—stand out for their precision, clarity, and purity of fruit, shaped by the valley’s microclimates and the winemakers' innovative spirit.

Kung Fu Girl Riesling’s energy and zesty acidity make it a superb companion to a variety of dishes. Its dry style pairs beautifully with lightly spiced Asian cuisine, such as Thai green curry, sushi, or Vietnamese summer rolls—complements that echo the wine’s playful character. The bright citrus and stone fruit notes also work well with goat cheese, fresh salads, and West Coast seafood like Dungeness crab or grilled prawns. To explore a regional pairing, try it with Californian ceviche marinated in lime and coriander.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Riesling chilled but not overly cold, ideally at 8-10°C. Decanting is unnecessary; simply open and pour to appreciate its aromatic freshness. This vivacious white is best enjoyed young, celebrating its expressiveness and lively palate.