If you took a premium Chablis and blended in a modest dose of a fine Meursault, you would have our 2013 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay; A combination of bright acidity and lemon zest balanced with fresh apples and a round mouthfeel. The perfect wine for clam bakes on the beach or any roast bird that you fancy. Although drinkable now, patience will be rewarded with increased richness and complexity.

The Vineyards

Our 2013 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay is made from two lots of two different clones from two different vineyards. Dijon Clone 95 is from the Sangiacomo Family’s Roberts Road Vineyard. The Roberts Road Vineyard was planted in 1998 and is ideal for cool climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Dijon Clone 76 is from the neighboring Price Family’s Gaps Crown Vineyard which was planted in phases to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from 2002 to 2005.

The Weather

The weather throughout the Petaluma Gap region during the growing season (Apr-Oct) was slightly warmer and sunnier with higher humidity, compared to the previous 10 year average (2003-2012).

Regional temperatures exceeded 10 year averages with the only “typical” temperatures in April, July and October. Even 2012 and 2009’s warmer than average conditions were surpassed by 2013 temperatures. Solar radiation exceeded historical averages as well as levels seen in 2011 but trailed 2012 and 2009.

Humidity levels were higher than average through most of the season with exceptions of April, May and October. The increased humidity due to the marine layers during the height of the growing season surpassed those seen in 2012 and 2009. Wind conditions in our otherwise windy region were slightly diminished as compared to previous averages. This, combined with increased humidity levels during the summer, required diligent canopy management.