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Tasting Notes
Expressive and bright, this Chardonnay presents aromas and flavors of crisp Fuji apple, citrus zest, almond skin and toasted marshmallow. The midpalate is rich and creamy with notes of crème brûlée before a finish with soft acidity and a hint of minerality.
Vintage Notes
The 2024 growing season started off wet with abundant rains revitalizing the soil. Cooler temperatures extended ripening and allowed the grapes time to develop deep color, varietal intensity and balanced acidity. Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Zinfandel were picked in late August through early September, while the Bordeaux varieties were harvested in September concluding with a final pick of Cabernet Sauvignon in mid-October.
Vineyard Notes
The fruit for this elegant wine is sourced from a historic vineyard in Russian River Valley, a premier appellation for Chardonnay. Warm summer days bring in fog from the nearby coast producing cool evenings and chilly nights, allowing the fruit to ripen slowly while retaining acidity.
Winemaker Notes
To preserve Chardonnay’s delicate flavors, aromas and acidity, the grapes are picked in the very early morning hours so the fruit arrives cold at the winery. Grapes are immediately pressed, then fermented in French oak barrels. During aging, bâtonage (stirring the lees by hand) is performed to achieve complexity and a rich mouthfeel. This wine underwent 80% malolactic fermentation and was aged for eleven months.
