Winemaker's Notes
This vintage of our one and only blended chardonnay is comprised of outstanding fruit from four vineyards. Each of these is located in the cooler, southern portion of the Russian River Valley and contributes its own unique attributes and fruit characteristics.
Pale yellow with a slight opalescence in appearance, the aromatics of this wine reveal citrus and crème brûlée with a hint of roasted coffee. The palate displays rich aromas of sautéed fig, apple, and nectarine with just a touch of spearmint. An underlying and intriguing minerality component adds beauty and complexity. This wine is well balanced and focused, and complemented by a lengthy finish. Aged 11 months in French oak, 58% new.
Harvest
Harvest Date
September 6 - October 7
Harvest Brix
24.5° – 25.6°
Growing Season
The growing season began with warm, dry weather in March, resulting in early bud break. A long summer of even temperatures had a moderating effect, lowering yields and maximizing complexity in the fruit. Six days of heat in the first week of September increased flavor intensity and led to an early harvest.
Winemaking
• Hand-harvested grapes • Whole cluster, direct to press • Barrel fermented with indigenous yeasts; 6 months to completion • Concurrent native malolactic fermentation in barrels; 5 to 9 months to completion • Aged 11 months in French oak barrels; 58% new; sur-lies aged and stirred biweekly • Unfined and unfiltered; bottled January 2006
