Brander Cuvée Natalie 2008 Offers Crisp, Mineral-Driven White Blend

Los Olivos winery's Alsace-style white blend features Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, and Pinot Gris.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Wine writer Randy Fuller reviews the Brander Cuvée Natalie 2008, an Alsace-style white wine blend from a Los Olivos winery. The wine features Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, and Pinot Gris grapes, and is described as having a floral, peachy aroma, a mineral-driven taste with notes of pear and melon, and a long, zesty finish.

Why it matters

The review highlights a unique, food-friendly white wine from California's Central Coast region, showcasing the diversity of the area's wine offerings beyond the more well-known red varietals.

The details

The Brander Cuvée Natalie 2008 is made entirely in stainless steel, giving it a crisp, fresh edge. The wine pours a pale yellow with a greenish hue, and the nose is floral with a peachy aspect and a hint of fresh-cut grass. On the palate, the wine is laden with minerality, with flavors of crunchy pear, melon, and a slight petrol note. The high acidity makes the wine very food-friendly.

  • The wine was reviewed in February 2026.

The players

Brander

A winery located in Los Olivos, California that produces the Cuvée Natalie white wine blend.

Fred Brander

The owner and winemaker of Brander Winery, who named the Cuvée Natalie after his daughter.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Cuvée Natalie pours into the glass as a pale yellow with a greenish hue. The nose is floral with a peachy aspect and it's not a surprise to find a little fresh-mown grass in the aroma profile.”

— Randy Fuller, Wine Writer (nowandzin.com)

The takeaway

The Brander Cuvée Natalie 2008 demonstrates the versatility and quality of white wines coming out of California's Central Coast region, offering an Alsace-inspired blend that is both refreshing and food-friendly.