Chardonnay

2009

SONOMA COUNTY

Mountain Estate Vineyard, Chardonnay

On our Mountain Estate, these vines grow on a steep, rocky, Northeast-facing slope at an average elevation of 1,300 feet, receiving early morning sun and minimal exposure to hot afternoon temperatures. Planted in 1999, this vineyard has proven ideal for the gradual ripening and maximum maturation of Chardonnay grapes.

Tasting Notes

Pale straw color. Aromas of lemon créme brulee and jasmine honeysuckle; high tone tropical fruit hints of pineapple and guava. The palate ushers in flavors of kiwi, candied fig and crisp apple finishing with powerful mineral acidity. This wine is rich and unctuous while maintaining the graceful balance of powerful ripe fruit and classically crisp mountain acidity. While it begs to be enjoyed now, we think this wine will continue to reward those fans disciplined enough to allow 5-7 years of cellaring.

- Whitney Fisher, Winemaker

Production Notes

Whole cluster pressed to tank
Juice cold settled over 24 hours
Moved to barrel by gravity
Partial malolactic fermentation (approximately 75%)
Aged 18 months sur lees in 60% new French oak

Alcohol by volume is 14.5%
Bottle date March 2011
630 cases produced

Vintages Produced