Nose
The wine impresses with aromas of yellow blossoms, citrus and a note of chamomile tea.
Palate
The richly textured palate offers delectable flavors of fresh white fruits and sweet brioche accented by minerality for a lingering and pleasurable finish.
Growing Conditions
Summary: The 2015 vintage began in late winter due to unseasonably warm temperatures leading to an early bud break, and thus an elongated growing season. Overall yields were lighter than average with smaller cluster and berry size as a result of cooler temperatures during bloom and the third consecutive year of drought. The resultant wines show increased concentration of flavors with wonderful balance and round textures. This blend from prestigious Russian River vineyards is a quintessential chardonnay from this appellation. Properties: Ross Station Estate, Edward James Estate, Ellen Lane Estate, O’Connor Vineyard, Feeney Estate, Dinner Vineyard
Harvest
Hand-harvested, picked at night.
Bottling
Unfined and unfiltered; bottled January 2016
Winemaking
Whole cluster pressed while still cold from the field Barrel-fermented with indigenous yeasts Spontaneous malolactic fermentation in barrel Clonal Selections: Old Wente, Batto, Montrachet, Calera, 15, Mt. Eden
Aging
Aged 12 months in French oak barrels; 50% new, 4 months in stainless steel; Aged sur lies with biweekly bâtonnage. Coopers: Cadus, Damy, Louis Latour, Francois Frères, Gauthier, Remond, Leroi, Atelier
Appearance
A pale straw, pearlescent hue.