Nose
It impresses with aromas of citrus blossom, spiced
baked pears and honey-glazed brioche.
Palate
Layered yet seamless, it lifts off the palate with a hint
of mandarin meringue, while an enduring essence of marzipan crème lingers through the
lengthy finish.
Growing Conditions
2012 was a rich, complex vintage for this quintessential Russian River Valley Chardonnay.
2012 has been described by many as “textbook perfect,” with both yields
and quality being well above average. The growing season was long and mild, leading to even
ripening, and harvest was completed before the first storm of the season arrived in late
October. The wines from 2012 are expressive, balanced and delicious!
Properties: Edward James Estate, Ellen Lane Estate, Ross Station Estate, O’Connor,
Ulises Valdez
Clonal Selections: Wente, Bato, Calera, 15, Mt. Eden, Robert Young
Harvest
Hand-harvested grapes.
Bottling
Unfined and unfiltered; bottled January 2014.
Winemaking
Whole cluster, direct to press, cold
Barrel-fermented with indigenous yeasts; 3-6 months to completion
Spontaneous malolactic fermentation in barrels
Aging
Aged 11 months in French oak barrels; 46% new; Aged sur lies; biweekly bâtonnage.
Appearance
The
wine offers a brilliant citrine quartz color