Chardonnay Santa Maria Valley

Our 2010 Santa Maria Valley Chardonnay is slightly rounder on the palate than the 2009 due in large part to additional malo-lactic conversion and barrel aging. In order to achieve the desired balance and integration, we used only native yeast and neutral oak. The lees were stirred every two weeks for the first year, producing added depth and weight. On the nose we get notes of fresh citrus and baked pears with hints of buttered toast and flowers. On the palate, a velvety texture and balanced acidity are supported by flavors of golden apple and honeysuckle which remain focused through the lengthy finish.

Vineyards:
Solomon Hills

Harvest:
September 28-29, 2010

Composition:
100% Chardonnay, 50% Clone 95 ,50% Clone 96

Aging:
17 Months 100% Neutral French Oak

Total Acidity:
5.9 g/L

Alcohol:
14.4%

Dijon clones 95 and 96 from Solomon Hills provide a supple base with bright acidity and tropical and citrus notes. Our winemaking is minimalist: cold fermentation with native yeast, aging in neutral French oak and lees stirring twice a week for six months.

2010 Santa Maria Valley Chardonnay Vintage Label Image