Closely related to Chardonnay, Bel Lago planted our first vines of Auxerrois (pronounced Awk – Sair – Wah) in 1987 and became the first in Michigan and one of the first in the country to do so. Barrel fermented and sur-lie aged in neutral oak barrels for 11 months, this wine gains concentrated aromas and flavors without absorbing any oak. Tropical fruits like passion fruit, mango and pineapple are found in the nose, while cantaloupe, lemon and a slight vanilla sweetness enrich the palate. With plenty of acidity up front, this medium-bodied wine finishes smooth, mellow and leesy.