Tasting notes
This is a lively Chardonnay with fragrant aromas of fresh citrus fruits, Granny Smith apple, and lime. The palate is round and luscious with a creamy texture that is supple, providing good weight and depth. Bright notes of ripe pineapple, Golden Delicious apple, melon, and citron crème are fruit-forward and inviting, while a subtle spiced note of vanilla, brioche toast, and shortbread adds layers and nuance, hinting at delicate oak influence. This wine is savory and mouth-pleasing with secondary notes of hazelnut and lanolin, providing richness, all developing into a mouthwatering crisp and dry finish that is long and refreshing.
Technical information
Appellation
Napa Valley
Alcohol
14.5%
Volume
750 mL
Winemaking
Our Chardonnay was harvested in the cool morning hours and sent directly to press at the winery. We fermented the juice from these grapes with a combination of French (65%) and American oak (35%) to impart rich texture and added spice notes. 100% of the wine was allowed to complete malolactic fermentation. The final wine is elegant and shows a core of beautiful fruit character with balanced, bright acidity.
Vineyard
Fruit for this Napa Valley Chardonnay comes from vineyard sites primarily in the most southern part of Napa Valley, as well as a few sites farther north. From the Carneros AVA, Stanly Ranch and BV Ranch 9 are featured, here the region’s shallow clay loam soils and marine-influenced climate foster ripe, beautifully balanced Chardonnays. Farther north in the Oak Knoll and Oakville AVAs, Big Ranch and Gamble Ranch contribute riper fruit profiles, with a round, creamy mouthfeel. These vineyard sites consistently produce Chardonnay ideal for our style of winemaking with fresh fruit flavors and bright acidity.