Release Date: Spring 1999

1997 brought an early spring to Edna Valley and the warm weather during flowering set a bountiful crop of Chardonnay grapes.  So much so, that our grower Andy MacGregor decided to thin his precious crop.  This is a process whereby workers cut off a portion of the grape clusters early in the growing season to bring the remaining fruit into proper balance.  Few growers I know will do this to maintain the highest standards of grape maturity, but he does.  It is this commitment that has led to the overwhelming success of this wine for the past thirteen vintages.

Size-wise the 1997 is enormous.  The texture, weight, and levels of extraction bring one’s palate to immediate attention.  Creamy, unctuous, pineapple-guava flavors coat the mouth and hang on with incredible persistence.  Drink over the next 2-3 years.