Tech Notes
Yield: 2.0 tons per acre
Harvest: September 7th – October 7th
Numbers @ Harvest: 23.2° Brix, 3.33 pH, 7.2 grams acidity
Barrel Regimen: Mix of French & American Oak–2 to 5 years 100% Barrel Fermented; 100% Malolactic; 100% sur-lie
Bottling: June 2017
Alcohol: 14.0%
Tasting Notes
Release Date: Fall 2018
Late summer in the Edna Valley is so cool and windy due to a strong ocean influence that the fruit in the vineyards hangs forever, very slowly ripening. This long growing season develops the complexity and length which has kept us producing this Chardonnay since 1985.
The lingering effects of the drought at Wolff Vineyard, our traditional fruit source, reduced their yields. To supplement we purchased additional grapes from a vineyard a half a mile away named Biddle Ranch which was planted in 1990. Combined, they produced an intriguing style of gardenia blossom and citrus notes in the aromas. Full-bodied yet elegant on the palate due to barrel and full malolactic fermentations, this Chardonnay displays a firm acidity, the hallmark of the Edna Valley, which assists in carrying the aftertaste.
Noted wine critic Antonio Galloni (Vinous) states, “This is the best value in California Chardonnay.”
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