Our Chardonnay comes from the Red hen Vineyard that is South of our Estate Vineyard between the towns of Napa and Yountville on Hwy 29. With similar soil structures, these two vineyards complement each other seamlessly. The Sees Chardonnay clone is used exclusively and is perfect for the climate and soil structure in this vineyard, creating wine with delicate floral components while having a rich full-bodied structure.
Picked and transported as quickly as possible the grapes go immediately into the press for a very long and gentle pressing cycle, sometimes taking up to eight hours. The barrel fermentation is completed at a relatively cool temperature to help retain the bright, tropical fruit flavors associated with this varietal. This wine lot is topped constantly, stirred once a week during fermentation and aged sur lie for 19 months.
Nose: Peony flower, tropical melons and Asian pears with hints of honeysuckle and clove.
Palate: Vanilla bean, honeydew melon, ripe mandarin orange, Meyer lemons and candied apple round out the soft finish of this wine.
Vintage: 2009
Appellation: Oak Knoll District, Napa Valley
Vineyard: Red Hen Vineyard
Aging: Aged for 19 months in 60% new French Oak.
Varietals: 100% Chardonnay
Alcohol: 14.2%
Cases Produced: 112 Cases
Winemaker: Brian Graham