Nose
lively aromas of citrus, nectarine and yellow flowers.
Palate
The supple texture and seamlessly structured palate are layered with white peach, apricot, lemon zest and Gravenstein apple. Notes of minerality linger over the long, pleasurable finish.
Growing Conditions
2011 began with a wet winter and spring across Sonoma and Napa Counties. Summer was warm, and as harvest approached temperatures rose. Our chardonnay ripened fully and evenly, allowing sugars and acid to develop in balance. The wines from 2011 are bright, expressive and faceted. Edward James Estate, Ellen Lane Estate, Ross Station Estate, O’Connor, Ulises Valdez Clonal Selections: Wente, Bato, Calera, 15, Mt. Eden, Robert Young
Harvest
Hand‐harvested grapes
Bottling
Unfined and unfiltered; bottled January 2013.
Winemaking
Whole cluster, direct to press, cold Barrel‐fermented with indigenous yeasts; 3‐5 months to completion Concurrent native malolactic fermentation in barrels
Aging
Aged 11 months in French oak barrels; 46% new; Aged sur lies; biweekly bâtonnage.
Appearance
The quintessential Russian River Valley Chardonnay, this wine offers a lustrous pale straw hue.