Gold - 2022 Denver Itnl. Wine Competition ------ Caramel, honey, and butterscotch, coupled with brown butter pears and bananas on the nose. Subtle aromas of pecans, almonds, and amaretto. Light to medium bodied. A creamy mid-palate weight coats the mouth without being overly viscous, leading to a supple finish.
About the Vineyard
Vineyard Notes
Our Chardonnay was grown in the San Lucas AVA at the southernmost point of Monterey County. Freedom rootstock, known for its preference for well-drained earth, is planted on Metz Complex Sandy Loam soils. Clone 4, sometimes referred to as the workhorse clone, is consistent in producing exceptional quality wines with good yields.
Winemaker Notes
Growing Season
Production Notes
For the first time since 2012, growers experienced California’s cool, coastal climate and a long, drawn out harvest season. Mild temperatures in winter and spring extended the period for bloom and fruit set, keeping growers busy protecting against frost. The cool temperatures led to predictions of a light crop, but extended hang time resulted in an average yield. Quality for Chardonnay was exceptional, with solid acid levels and great phenolic development.
Winemaking
Winemaker Notes
After a gentle squeeze in the membrane press, the collected juice was cold settled and clean racked into barrels. The use of Saccharomyces Bayanus yeast for fermentation produced excellent aromatics. The wine aged on the lees, helping to intensify creamy characteristics, although some malic acid was left for crispness. A small percentage of Muscat Canelli blended in just prior to bottling enhanced aromatics.
Technical Info
Alcohol %
13.3
Production
Harvest Date
10 barrels produced
Aging
Barrel aged for 15 months on the lees. 30% new American oak barrels – medium toast. 70% neutral oak barrels