Growing Conditions

Called “one of the great Grand Cru Chardonnay sites in California” by Robert Parker, the Charles Heintz Vineyard sits upon a ridgetop along the rocky Sonoma County coastline. The 30-year-old vines, planted on the desirable Gold Ridge Sandy Loam top-soils, ripen slowly, cooled each evening by the fog that rolls in from the nearby Pacific Ocean. This slow, even ripening process results in beautifully balanced wines with fully developed flavors and fresh acidity. The vineyard site has been in the Heintz family for over 100 years, and since its planting in 1982 has become a name synonymous with the best of California Chardonnay.

Winemaking

A classic representation of this stunning coastal vineyard, this wine is the most exuberant of the 2019 Chardonnays. Aromas of luscious tropical fruit and white pineapple begin on the nose, while the palate is reminiscent of apple galette, with delicious baked Golden Delicious along with almond paste, brioche and cinnamon stick flavors. The richness is perfectly balanced by the wine’s long, refreshing finish that leaves your mouth watering for another sip.

Aging

100% Barrel Fermentation; Full Malolactic; aged 11 months in 55% new French Oak