Release Date: Spring 2015

Our fourth edition of the Reserve series has been a fascinating study in comparing our Estate Chardonnay to this Reserve Wine.  With all the history and success of our Chardonnay it would seem difficult to “gild the lily”. However, it seems we have succeeded. All along we have had a “just taste and see” approach; and what I “taste and see” is impressive.

After ten months of oak aging, eleven selected barrels are combined with the sediments of fermentation (primarily spent yeast) into a stainless steel tank.  It is then aged another twelve months and through the magic of autolysis, the sediments disappear, becoming incorporated into the wine. This is an old practice I came across on a trip to Burgundy. Since then I have wanted to try it but just didn’t have the cellar space until the 2007 vintage.

Even at this late release date the 2010 is very fresh.  (Looking back over the 2007-2009 Reserves the wine seems to have more backbone for aging, which is paramount.) Youthful aromas of citrus, cardamom, almond and earth combine with a full texture and brightness on the palate.

If you enjoy our Estate Chardonnay, I think you will find this Reserve an intriguing comparison.