Growing Conditions
The 2018 vintage was a joy to behold. Early budbreak was slowed by threats of spring frost. A cold, gray spring gave way to a mild, pleasant summer. Every forecasted heatwave fizzled, while the harvest monsoon became a light dusting of rain over eastern region of Los Carneros. For the grapes, this meant ample hang time with no need to rush during harvest. The wines have terrific concentration and have retained all their crispness and vitality.
We’re quite taken with the wines from this vintage. Pinot Noir yields were short and concentrated from our vineyard, while the Chardonnay bounty was more typical in yields. They shall be a bit more generous and earlier drinking than the previous, cooler vintage.
Winemaking
A long, cool growing season, ideal for cool climate varieties, delivered wines of structure, focus and shimmering elegance. Our 2018 Estate Chardonnay delights with notes of hazelnut, honeysuckle, apricot and quince. The hints of brioche and vanilla surf a wave of citrusy, bright fruit and a long, creamy finish.
