Vineyard Sources

Vineyard Manager Lance Blakeley works with Frank Johnson Vineyards to set aside a particular lot for this single vineyard selection. Fruit for this Chardonnay came entirely from a designated portion of their vineyard in Dry Creek Valley. Two appellations meet in this vineyard: Russian River Valley on the south side and Dry Creek Valley to the north. Located less than two miles from the Russian River, the cool microclimate (influenced by marine fog layers and the confluence of Dry Creek and Russian River), combined with the alluvial soils, results in exceptional fruit for a nicely balanced wine.

Winemaking

The vineyard lot was harvested over the last three days of August. The grapes were then destemmed, crushed and pressed to a stainless steel tank to settle juice for 24 hours. The juice was inoculated with Montrachet yeast. When fermentation reached the half-way point, the fermenting juice was transferred to barrels to finish fermentation.The wine was then aged sur-lies. Weekly stirring of the wine ensured the round, smooth effects of aging the wine on the lees. 75% of the wine was fermented in French oak barrels with a complement of American oak.

Winemaker's Tasting Notes

“This bouquet for our Chardonnay retains the delicate aromas and flavors of lemongrass, green apple and honeydew melon. Barrel fermentation adds a creamy, rich mouthfeel without overwhelming the fruit flavors. Crisp and full bodied, the flavors are layered with a toasted oak finish, elegant and balanced. Enjoy now or within three years of the vintage.”

Technical Information

Composition: Aging: Acidity: Alcohol: pH:: 100% Chardonnay 9 months French & American oak barrels .675g/100ml 14.5% 3.38

 

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