Palate
Our 2012 Chardonnay is barrel fermented in 35% new French oak barrels. Malolactic fermentation is done to completion helping to ensure the microbial stability of the finished wine. The wine is aged sur-lie for 10 months, undergoing a monthly bâtonnage to enhance the rich and full mouthfeel. A brilliant, lightly golden hued wine opens with toasty oak aromatics backed by strong pear aromatics laced with vanilla, spice, and a hint of fresh flowers. The mouthfeel is rich and full, coating the entire palate and finishing with a flavor reminiscent of a spiced pear tart that lingers well after the wine has made its exit.
Growing Conditions
"Classic" and "perfect" are just two accolades being bestowed upon the 2012 Napa Valley growing season and harvest. Textbook conditions saw near-ideal spring bud break, steady flowering, even fruit set, and a lengthy stretch of warm days and cool and often foggy nights during the long summer months. Late and light rains held off until Napa Valley's treasured wine grapes found optimal ripeness, bringing exceptional quality to the crush pad and into the cellar.
