Bright, balanced & rich - everything you want in a California Charodnnay!
Our location in the southern end of the Alexander Valley is defined by the Russian River. Morning fog, warm days and daily diurnal temperature swings of 40 to 50 degrees provide the ideal growing conditions for our Chardonnay.
2023 began with heavy winter rainfall that delivered much needed moisture to the vines, followed by a long, cool growing season. Our Chardonnay harvest occurred about one month later than prior years, but the long hang time allowed for the development of rich flavors. At harvest, the quality of the fruit was excellent with balanced acidity and intense flavors.
We harvest 75% of our Chardonnay at night when the grapes are cool to retain the natural acidity, then cold ferment those lots in stainless steel, without malolactic fermentation or barrel aging, to highlight the citrus and green apple flavors. We whole-cluster press 25% of the best fruit and barrel ferment that portion in French oak barrels. The barrel fermented lots undergo secondary malolactic fermentation and age on the lees for six to eight months to develop roundness and body.
The 2023 is a full bodied, well balanced Chardonnay with loads of fresh fruit flavors. Aromas of apple, pear, vanilla along with floral notes and hint of oak from the minimal barrel aging fill the glass. Fresh fruit flavors of pear, apple, nectarine, juicy peach and tropical fruits along with slight citrus notes are balanced by the rich mouthfeel and slight minerality on the finish.
Accolades:
2022: 91 points - Wine Enthusiast
2021: 94 points - Tasting Panel
2020: 96 points - Beverage Dynamics
