Harvest
Here in Napa Valley, the 2014 growing season delivered our third exceptional vintage in a row, yielding wines with ideal concentration, elegant tannins and lovely varietal flavors. Though the 2013/2014 winter was one of the driest on record, heavy rains in February and March provided the vines much-needed moisture at just the right time. A warm spring triggered an early budbreak, and perfect weather throughout the summer allowed the grapes to achieve ideal ripeness with pure, focused flavors and resolved tannins. Harvest began on August 5th and ended on October 15th, and though it was quite compact, we were able to pick all of our grapes based solely on flavor, resulting in another fantastic vintage.
Winemaking
From its aromas of Bosc pear, lemon cream, vanilla and chai to its silky entry and bright minerality, this is a vibrant and complex Chardonnay. On the palate, it strikes a beautiful balance between richness and elegance, with a lush texture and abundant flavors of white peach and Mandarin orange framed by lively acidity and hints of baked apple and elderflower.
Aging
Chardonnay Cooperage 90% Barrel Fermentation 100% French Oak 45% New oak, 45% Second Vintage, 10% Stainless Steel Barrel Aging: 10 months