Growing Conditions
Flora Marie Vineyard sits on the eastern side of the Russian River Valley hilltops, planted to the elegant Montrachet clone in the region’s quintessential Goldridge soil. The vines are situated on one of the flanking ridgelines of the Russian River Valley, where the vines are shrouded in fog at night and early morning but receive bountiful sunlight during the day. As a result, this Chardonnay is one of the first lots to be harvested each year, and the wines have gorgeous acidity and finesse.
2018 was truly a winemakers’ vintage, and the quality of the resulting wines presents itself in bottle. Generous rainfall in February led to a late budbreak and extended flowering period. Beautiful and mild weather throughout spring and summer made for a healthy crop load. With no major heat spikes or weather events in the fall, winemakers were able to patiently wait to pick at optimal fruit ripeness.
Winemaking
From a lovely vineyard on one of the flanking ridgelines of the Russian River Valley, the 2018 Flora Marie Chardonnay is the confluence of a spectacular vintage and singular site. A mineral-driven wine on the nose and palate, this Chardonnay has a subtle saline character with oyster shell and hints of jasmine. The mouthfeel is medium to full bodied, showing flavors of pineapple rind along with citrus, granny smith apple and pear skin through its long finish reminiscent of decadent banana cream pie.
Aging
100% Barrel Fermentation; Full Malolactic; aged 11 months in 55% new French Oak
