Palate

Auteur has made a beautiful wine with sweet marmalade, white peach, apple jelly and citrus oil notes along with a subtle smokiness. The finish is long and the wine certainly full-bodied and beautifully vibrant. Drink it over the next 5-6 years.

Growing Conditions

Three of Sonoma’s best AVAs, Sonoma Valley, Sonoma Coast, and Carneros converge here showcasing the defining characteristics of each, afternoon Sonoma Coast breezes, moderating Carneros effects of the San Pablo Bay and the warmth of Sonoma Valley.

Winemaking

Our premier-Cru Meurseult styled wine is curated with an awakening mineral edge, opulent amounts of citrus tang and vitality wrapped by a concentrated core of ripe pear, honeyed apple. fresh almonds with touches of grated nutmeg and lemon oil. Inhibited Malolactic fermentation accents Durell's ancient riverbeds and volcanic soils crafting a Chardonnay full of tension and grace.

Aging

This wine was aged in 50% new French oak, which may account for the hint of smoke.