Release Date: Spring 2001

1999 was our fifteenth vintage with this vineyard and what a nail biter it was. Winter lasted until April in this pastoral valley and the vines got off to a late start. The ripening proceeded painstakingly slow into late October making Edna Valley the last major Chardonnay region in the state to harvest.

Once the crushing was over, we realized the jolting numbers: only 1.5 tons per acre – half of a normal harvest. On the plus side, the wine is great. Very youthful in character at present with the usual peach, guava, grapefruit and toast in the aromas. On the palate the flavors are compact and long with a unique mineral quality. Acidity is high, reflecting both the low yield and the lateness of harvest.

Totally French barrel fermented and aged for nine months in our mountain cave. Enjoy with confidence over the next three – four years.