A mild, dry winter followed by bud break prompted an early start to the 2014 growing season throughout California. Moderate spring and summer temperatures led to slow, even ripening with excellent flavor development. The 2014 Chardonnay highlights our commitment to artfully blending for richness, intensity and balance from long-term vineyard partners in Carneros, Monterey, and Santa Barbara counties.

All of the grapes were hand harvested at night and 100% barrel fermented in our custom designed barrel room which maintains a constant 46°F throughout the 4-6 week fermentation. This long, cool fermentation ensures optimal lees contact for richness and depth, and also helps to prevent malolactic fermentation, thus preserving the bright natural acidity from our coastal vineyard sites. The wine is then aged for 10 months in 100% American oak barrels which contributes to the richness and complexity of the wine.

Aromas of juicy pineapple, guava and lemon zest mingle with notes of sweet vanilla and honeysuckle. The palate is round, full bodied and boasts a core of bright tropical fruit that is balanced beautifully by natural acidity.