Chardonnay Napa Valley 2023

VINTAGE NOTES
2023 is an exceptional, high-quality vintage marked by one of the longest growing seasons in over a decade. Significant winter and spring rains led to mild summer weather supported balanced canopy growth through bloom and set. Cooler weather throughout the growing season along with an abundance of sunshine encouraged our Chardonnay grapes to develop slowly and evenly. This extended hang time led to perfectly ripe grapes with complex flavors and wines with freshness, purity and elegance.

VINEYARD SOURCES
Vineyards in Los Carneros, the southern portion of the Napa Valley, provided grapes for this wine. Known for its cool climate, shallow clay soils and rolling hills, Los Carneros has more of a maritime influence than any other Napa Valley AVA, a result of its proximity to San Pablo Bay (the northern part of San Francisco Bay). Warm daytime temperatures attract cool afternoon breezes from the Petaluma Gap, further aided by fog which comes in during the night and burns off in the early morning. These moderating influences create a long growing season, ideal for producing ripe grapes with balanced acidities.

WINEMAKING
After whole cluster pressing, fermentation took place in 100% French oak of which 30% were new barrels. To soften the impact of oak and preserve freshness, 75% of the barrels were 500-gallon puncheons and 25% barriques. Partial (30%) malolactic fermentation and periodic stirring of the lees add a richer, fuller aspect to the wine that was aged for 20 months in 75% puncheons and 25% barriques, 30% new.

TASTING NOTES
Sight: Medium yellow with golden highlights.
On the Nose: Intriguing aromas of golden delicious apple and pear with notes of brazil nuts, cashew, apple blossoms and pie crust.
On the Palate: Medium bodied flavors of melon, peach and apricot accented by lime zest, crème fraiche and macadamia nut, framed by vibrant acidity.