2000
Paul Hobbs Chardonnay, Walker Station Vineyard
Winemaker's Notes
This stylish 2000 Walker Station Chardonnay is distinguished by the distinctly layered character of the fruit. Aromas of mandarin orange, spearmint, honeysuckle, and gardenia petal mix with the enticing notes of freshly baked bread. On the palate the wine mellifluously reveals its lively, full-bodied nature: rich, luxurious, and seamless. Vibrant citrus flavors and a touch of vanilla remain as the flavors that linger on the finish. Alcohol 14.3%.
Vineyard
Owner/Manager
Michael & Kerry Riel
Vineyard
Walker Station Vineyard
Clones
Old Wente, small cluster selection
Vineyard Age
28 years
Site
Southwestern exposure, Blucher gravelly clay loam
Yield
1.0 tons/acre
Harvest
Harvest Date
Upper Vineyard - October 6, Lower Vineyard -October 26, 2000
Harvest Brix
Upper Vineyard - 24.1°, Lower Vineyard - 22.3°
Growing Season
An early spring in the Russian River Valley set a large crop, requiring extensive work in the vineyard to manage the yield for optimum flavor intensity and richness in the grapes. Cool weather in late September and October extended the harvest providing for enhanced flavor development.
Winemaking
Hand harvested grapes
Whole cluster, direct to press
Barrel fermented with indigenous yeasts, 9 months to completion
Concurrent native malolactic fermentation in barrels
Barrel aged 10 months, 64% new French oak, sur lies and stirred
