Tasting Notes

Release Date: Winter/Spring 2008

This is our 22nd harvest from this special vineyard, which is the oldest in Edna Valley. 2006 was a typically cool year with picking commencing on October 23rd. No other region in California picks this late. As the ocean air cools the vines in late summer, the ripening slows to a crawl and the fruit gains nuance and richness. This is the hallmark of the Edna Valley appellation.

Barrel fermented and aged sur-lie in our mountain cave, the wine is just entering its youthful prime. Honeysuckle, citrus and ripe pineapple flavors are long and opulent. Mouthwatering acidity reflects its cool coastal region.

This Chardonnay has a solid track record and various vintages have been included in the Wine Spectator's Top 100 wines four times for great quality and value.

Production

4,234

Tech Notes

Yield: 3.2 tons per acre (75 tons total purchase)

Harvest: October 23rd-26th

Numbers @ Harvest: 23.8° Brix, 3.45 pH, 9.3 grams acidity

Barrel Regimen: 1-5 years old French Oak; 100% barrel fermented with full malolactic; aged sur lie 8 months

Bottling: July 23rd- 26th 2007

Alcohol: 14.2%

Reviews

89 points Wine Spectator - June 2008

Top Value 2008

Fresh & vibrant, with floral apple blossom scents.  Complex spicy mineral, green apple and green pear notes, with a hint of cedar, are clean and refreshing.  Has good length, picking up a trace of anise on the finish. Drink now.

88 points Wine Enthusiast - July 2008

Bright and pure, with high natural acidity framing ripe flavors of peaches, pineapples, limes, kiwi fruits and smoky, oaky vanilla.  Classic Edna Valley Chardonnay.—S.H.