Kukkula Vaalea 2020

Kukkula Vaalea 2020

The Pale One – Kukkula’s Rhône-Style White

Kukkula – Finnish for “the hill” or “high place” – is the family estate of Finnish-American winemaker Kevin Jussila and his wife Paula on the west side of Paso Robles. Their steep, north-facing hillside vineyards in the Adelaida District rise to around 1,500–1,900 feet and are farmed organically and without irrigation, giving Rhône-style wines that balance California ripeness with real freshness. Most of the wines carry Finnish names – a tribute to Kevin’s roots.

Vaalea means “light” or “pale” in Finnish. It is Kukkula’s white Rhône blend, built around Roussanne and Viognier – a textured, aromatic white with the body to stand up to food.

🍷 Tasting Notes

Lemon peel, acacia blossom and ripe stone fruit on the nose, with a round, juicy palate and a fresh finish. With six years in bottle, the 2020 has added richer honeyed and nutty tones while keeping its lift – a white at its fully developed best.

🍽️ Food Pairing

Roast chicken, creamy fish dishes, scallops, salmon, mild cheeses and gently spiced Asian cuisine.

📋 Details

• Producer: Kukkula, Adelaida District, Paso Robles, California
• Grapes: Roussanne, Viognier (blend varies by vintage)
• Vintage: 2020
• Alcohol: 15 %
• Serve at: 10–12 °C