Nose
Expressive aromas of citrus, honeysuckle and white flowers.
Palate
The palate is full‐
bodied and viscous with perfectly integrated flavors of Bosc pear, fresh cut apple and lemon
meringue. Notes of jasmine and minerality complement the long, memorable finish.
Growing Conditions
2009 began with an abundance of spring rain followed by mild, steady
summer temperatures that set the stage for nearly ideal pinot noir and chardonnay growing
conditions. The well‐set fruit ripened slowly allowing for an excellent balance of sugars and
acids to develop. The resulting wines can be characterized as elegant and rich with
profound depth and structure.
Properties: Edward James Estate, Ritchie, Ulises Valdez, O’Connor, Slusser
Clonal Selections: Wente, Bato, 15, See, Robert Young
Harvest
Hand‐harvested grapes.
Bottling
Unfined and unfiltered; bottled January 2011
Winemaking
Whole cluster, direct to press, cold
Barrel‐fermented with indigenous yeasts; 4 months to completion
Concurrent native malolactic fermentation in barrels
Aging
Aged 12 months in French oak barrels; 55% new; Aged sur lies; biweekly bâtonnage.
Appearance
An opalescent, pale straw hue.