Nose
The 2012 Hartford Court Russian River Valley Chardonnay offers subtle aromas of jasmine flower, citrus oil, ripe apple and pear.
Palate
The elegant aromatics are complemented by fresh kiwi, lemon drop and Pippin apple flavors. The fruit focused mid-palate is followed by subtle mineral notes and a hint of crystallized ginger in the finish.
Growing Conditions
The 2012 Hartford Court Russian River Valley Chardonnay comes from a collection of small vineyards located throughout the Russian River Valley AVA. These vineyards are a combination of our estate properties such as Fog Dance, Arrendell and Bloomfield, as well as a handful of our neighbor's vineyards located in the heart of the Russian River Valley. The sites express the essence of the Russian River Valley by showcasing the best of the sub-regions within our AVA. Among those sites are Middle Reach, Green Valley, and Laguna ridge - all sub-regions that bring complexity and character to the final blend.
Winemaking
Hartford Court’s Russian River Valley Chardonnay is hand sorted, followed by whole cluster pressing and fermentation with a combination of indigenous and cultured yeasts. The 2012 Hartford Court Russian River Valley Chardonnay is barrel fermented in all French oak barrels (30% new) and then aged for 10 months. There is minimal fining and filtration. These gentle handling techniques help promote fruit intensity, greater complexity and a wine with balance and elegance.
Aging
Barrel fermented in all French oak barrels (30% new) and then aged for 10 months
