Tasting Notes

Release Date: Spring 2002

The wine-growing gods blessed this cool valley in 2000 with a bountiful and early harvest. What a contrast to 1999, when we were still crushing at Halloween. During the sixteen years we have been making this wine we've noticed that years like 2000 yield big generous flavors and texture. Such is the case here. 2000 is a huge success with a delicious accessibility not often seen at this early stage.

The vines, planted in 1975, are approaching that old-vine mystique so more of the site specific "terroir" is emerging. Enticing mint, lemon, and honey suckle flavors are spiced with creamy oak and nuanced with a touch of earthiness. This wine, rich and full across the palate, holds its essential acidity in the background. Hedonistic.

Production

15,995

Tech Notes

Yield: 3.26 tons per acre

Harvest: September 22nd-October 19th

Numbers @ Harvest: 23.0° Brix, 3.49 pH, 8.3 grams acidity

Barrel Regimen: 75% French Burgundy and 25% American; 50% of the barrels were new; 100% barrel fermented; 100% malolactic; 100% sur-lie

Bottling: May-June 2001

Reviews

91 points Wine Enthusiast - February 2003

Brilliant, focused flavors of tangerine, white peach, honey, vanilla, lemon zest and smoke are delicious and complex. Bright acidity adds flair and life, while oak contributes a rich, creamy mouthfeel. The finish is long and intense. —S.H.

88 points Wine Spectator  - Web Only 2002

Offers ripe, vibrant fig, nectarine, tangerine and lemon-lime shadings. A tremendous value in a remarkably complex and elegant Chardonnay. Drink now through 2005. – J.L.